Behind the Bench: A Closer Look at Judicial Externships
Judicial externships provide an exceptional platform for developing legal research and writing skills while gaining an inside view of the judicial decision-making process. Students may assist judges and judicial staff by drafting bench memoranda, orders, and other related documents. Depending on the court, they may also observe a broad range of courtroom proceedings, offering valuable insights into litigation strategies, judicial reasoning, and courtroom dynamics.
Regularly Offered Field Placements
To learn more about student experiences, click the arrows below (testimonials available for select placements; content updated as new testimonials are received).
Will Ewell
Externed for Judge Brenda Weksler
My favorite thing to do was to observe court proceedings, after which I'd discuss what I observed with Judge Weksler and her clerks each time. I was also assigned writing projects like orders on motions to seal and screening orders. I learned how rewarding it is to work in a Judge's chambers, where you're tasked with making reasoned and objective decisions based on all the facts available as opposed to advocating for one particular side. Before my externship, I had no interest in criminal law. But having had the chance to see the criminal justice system work firsthand in Judge Weksler's courtroom, I've since decided to pursue criminal defense work. This never would have happened if I hadn't externed for Judge Weksler, spent so much time in her courtroom, and wrote so much about criminal law.
Jack Heinemann
Externed for Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier
My externship taught me the importance of clarity, precision, and neutrality in legal writing, as these elements are critical for assisting the court in delivering fair and informed decisions. Working on IFP applications and Social Security benefits appeals gave me a better appreciation for how federal courts address issues that significantly impact individuals' lives. I developed a stronger understanding of the federal rules of civil procedure and the strategic considerations judges weigh when resolving complex disputes. Beyond technical skills, I learned the value of thorough preparation, attention to detail, and professionalism. Observing how Judge Couvillier managed cases and interacted with litigants also emphasized the importance of empathy and patience in judicial decision-making. These lessons have shaped my perspective on how the law serves as a tool for justice.
Nathan MacKay
Externed for Judge Miranda Du
I learned how a judge’s chambers operate and deepened my understanding of various legal issues, from jurisdictional issues to criminal procedure and qualified immunity. During my externship, I drafted orders, wrote research memos, observed hearings and settlement conferences, and attended chamber meetings. This externship has affirmed my chosen path to pursue a clerkship after law school and opened my eyes to different areas of trial litigation.
Krystal Petersen
Externed for Judge James Mahan
While working with Judge Mahan, I drafted proposed orders for pending motions and observed federal court proceedings. I learned to write objectively, which helped judges and their clerks make informed decisions. Working with Judge Mahan allowed me to draft comprehensive orders since I had time to focus on the details. My judicial externship has prepared me well for my future job as a law clerk for a state district court judge after graduation. I am thankful for this experience because it taught me about objective writing, civil procedure, and the daily tasks of law clerks, as well as their overall role in the legal system.
Giacomo “Jack” Silvestri
Externed for Judge Andrew Gordon, Judge Jennifer Dorsey, and Judge Brenda Weksler
My externship experiences taught me how to write in a clear, understandable manner. Each of the judges and clerks I worked with stressed the importance of simple language and structure. If more people can comprehend what’s being written in an order, then the court is doing its job.
Kaylee Heiny
Externed for Judge Tierra D. Jones
Through my externship, I have strengthened my legal writing skills by briefing motions for both the civil and criminal cases. Also, I have strengthened my civil procedure knowledge by asking questions and watching hearings. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work with the wonderful members of Department 10 and Judge Jones. Due to my externship, I have the privilege of serving as the Honorable Tierra D. Jones’s judicial law clerk upon graduation in 2026. This clerkship will provide me with immense knowledge of practicing in the Nevada state court system, and a great start to my legal career!
Richard Kim
Externed for Judge Eric Johnson
From jury selection to jury verdict, I observed how the selected twelve jurors decide what should happen to the parties involved. Decisions made by the twelve jurors reflect the values, beliefs, and morals of our community. The citizens who participate in jury trials come from all walks of life, and their voices are heard in the decisions made. My externship gave me insights, perspectives, and opportunities to grow and develop my knowledge and skills as a lawyer. Sitting next to the judge, you get to watch how real cases – such as homicide and multi-million slip and fall – are handled by some of the best lawyers. You watch and learn how prosecutors, public defenders, lawyers, and judges act and talk inside the courtroom.
Krystal Petersen
Externed for Judge Joanna Kishner
With Judge Kishner, I prepared bench memos on pending motions and attended state trial court proceedings. I had to manage my time effectively to deliver quality work within a short timeframe. My judicial externship has prepared me well for my future job as a law clerk for a state district court judge after graduation. I am thankful for this experience because it taught me about objective writing, civil procedure, and the daily tasks of law clerks, as well as their overall role in the legal system.
Celina Stops
Externed for Judge Jennifer Schwartz
This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in criminal law by exposing me to real-world challenges of litigation and the critical role that fairness and professionalism play in the courtroom. Judge Schwartz consistently demonstrated these values through her thoughtful decisions and respectful demeanor, and I will carry those lessons with me as I grow in my career and strive to treat others with the same level of respect, fairness, and kindness. Observing numerous attorneys with varying advocacy styles was also extremely beneficial, as I'm confident those experiences will help shape and develop my own approach as a future attorney.