Externships

U.S. Trustee

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SITE DESCRIPTION

The United States Trustee Program is a component of the Department of Justice responsible for overseeing the administration of bankruptcy cases and private trustees pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 586 and 11 U.S.C. 101, et seq. The Program consists of an Executive Office for United States Trustees in Washington, D.C., as well as 21 regional U.S. Trustee Offices nationwide. The United States Trustee Program acts in the public interest to promote the efficiency and to protect and preserve the integrity of the bankruptcy system. It works to secure the just, speedy, and economical resolution of bankruptcy cases; monitors the conduct of parties and takes action to ensure compliance with applicable laws and procedures; identifies and investigates bankruptcy fraud and abuse; and oversees administrative functions in bankruptcy cases.

Students will work at the Office of the United States Trustee. Students will be provided with the opportunity to develop practical lawyering skills by participating in a broad range of activities. Interns review and evaluate case files, analyze and comment on legal documents and financial reports, prepare pleadings, conduct investigations, explore ethical issues, perform legal research, and attend meetings and hearings. Our goal is to provide students with a solid understanding of the role and function of the United States Trustee.

STUDENT QUALIFICATIONS

Prerequisites: None

Preferences: None

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The Statement of Interest should explain, with particularlity, the student's interest in bankruptcy law and the United States Trustee Program.
  • Eligibility:  Students enrolled at least half-time in law school may participate in volunteer legal internships up to the time of graduation from law school. Law school graduates who are enrolled in graduate law programs (e.g., LL.M. programs) at least half time may also serve as volunteer interns.Security and Suitability Issues: Prior to entry on duty, all interns undergo a suitability determination based on information provided in their security forms, a credit report, and fingerprint check.
  • Drug Testing:  It is the policy of the Department of Justice to achieve a drug-free workplace. Drug testing for volunteer internships may be required at the discretion of the employing office.
  • Citizenship Requirement: Only U.S. citizens are eligible for internships with the U.S. Trustee Program.
  • Residency Requirement:  For a total of three years (not necessarily consecutive years) of the five years immediately prior to applying for a position, the applicant must have: (1) resided in the U.S.; (2) worked for the U.S. overseas in a Federal or military capacity; or, (3) been a dependent of a Federal or military employee serving overseas.
  • Withdrawal of an Offer:  The Department can withdraw an offer if the suitability inquiry reveals information that precludes a security and/or suitability clearance. Common problems that arise in background investigations that may result in the withdrawal of an offer include a history of unlawful use of drugs, failure to fulfill tax obligations, failure to comply with financial obligations, failure to register with the Selective Service, or misrepresentation on the security forms.