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 judicial staff by drafting bench memoranda and orders. 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.
- U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
- U.S. Bankruptcy Court
- Nevada Supreme Court
- Nevada Court of Appeals
- Eighth Judicial District Court, Las Vegas
- Second Judicial District Court, Reno
- Las Vegas Justice Court
- Probate Commissioner
- Nevada Department of Taxation, Administrative Hearings Office
Extern Spotlights
Kaylee Heiny ('26)
The Eighth Judicial District Court- Judge Tierra D. Jones (Spring '25)
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!
Will Ewell ('26)
Federal District Court- Judge Brenda Weksler (Fall '24)
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.
Celina Stops ('26)
The Eighth Judicial District Court- Judge Jennifer Schwartz (Spring '25)
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.
Jack Heinemann ('25)
U.S. District Court of Nevada- U.S. Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier (Fall '24)
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.
Krystal Petersen ('25)
Clark County Public Defender (Spring '25)
U.S. District Court of Nevada- Judge Mahan (Spring '24)
The Eighth Judicial District Court- Judge Kishner (Summer '23)
In my judicial placements, I learned to write objectively, which helped judges and their clerks make informed decisions. Working with Judge Mahan allowed me to draft more comprehensive orders since I had more time to focus on the details. In contrast, with Judge Kishner, the pace was much quicker, and I had to manage my time effectively to deliver quality work within a shorter time frame.
At the Public Defender’s Office, I shifted my focus to persuasive writing after my experiences with objective writing. Most of my clients are incarcerated, which motivated me to advocate more passionately on their behalf. Through one-on-one meetings, I learned how to connect better with these clients and became more comfortable navigating criminal procedure. Overall, these externships have improved my ability to work with judges, their staff, clients, and fellow attorneys. I feel lucky to graduate from law school with these experiences.
Giacomo “Jack” Silvestri ('24)
U.S. District Court of Nevada- Judge Andrew Gordon & Judge Jennifer Dorsey (Spring '23)
U.S. District Court of Nevada- Judge Brenda Weksler (Summer and Fall '22)
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.