About the Colorado State Public Defender
Colorado’s Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top organizations in the nation specializing in the delivery of indigent criminal defense. We operate as an independent agency within the Judicial Branch of Colorado State Government with nearly 1,000 dedicated employees assigned to twenty-one Regional Trial Offices, a centralized Appellate Division, and a centralized Administrative Office. The mission of OSPD is to defend and protect the rights, liberties and dignity of those accused of crimes who cannot afford to retain counsel. We do so by providing constitutionally and statutorily mandated representation that is effective, zealous, inspired and compassionate. We seek to hire professionals who are dedicated to furthering our mission and demonstrate compassion in their service to our clients. We are a fast paced, team-oriented environment, where self-motivation and a personal commitment to high performance are important attributes for success.
Job Description
Location:
Social Work Interns will be placed based on location of residence.
Description:
Forensic social workers apply the fundamental theories of psychosocial variables to assist in identifying the presence of physical or mental health impairments, substance abuse, family or other social history patterns that may impact behavior and development. Under the direction of the defense attorney, social workers conduct assessments and compile psychosocial histories to develop recommendations for appropriate pretrial release, treatment options, conditions of probation or diversion, and sentencing and post-sentencing options.
Many of our offices host social work interns. Internships provide students an opportunity to learn about the criminal legal system and apply the principles of social work to support public defender clients. Social work interns must be committed to the NASW Code of Ethics’ Principles by valuing the dignity and worth of the person, and commitment to clients by respecting their right to self-determination, regardless of the accusation. In addition, they must apply confidentiality to the information they learn and the work they do on behalf of OSPD.
Requirements
The Colorado OSPD provides social work internship positions for MSW students. Internships consist of an initial training period followed by experience with release advocacy, setting up community support, and gradual introduction to the specialized practice of mitigation. Interns receive weekly supervision and specialized training.
Position Pages
Learn more about this role beyond the specific opening, including typical responsibilities, training, and how the position supports our clients and offices across Colorado.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the Colorado State Public Defender’s online application system.
You will be taken to our official application system (UKG Ready) to submit your application. Applicants may be prompted to create an account.
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