I have successfully completed my internship with the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, and I am incredibly grateful for the experience and the memories I made there. I had the opportunity to meet and connect with amazing attorneys and interns who all share my passion for the law. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals was truly inspiring and has only strengthened my desire to become a lawyer.
This internship was extremely rewarding, as it allowed me to fully immerse myself in the daily responsibilities of a lawyer. I quickly learned that being a lawyer isn’t just about being present in the courtroom. There is a long and detailed process that takes place before a case even goes to trial. As prosecutors, we hold the burden of proof and must demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant is guilty. There are many rules, deadlines, and procedures that must be followed to meet this standard. I also came to understand how much research and paperwork is involved behind the scenes. Attorneys must be overprepared than underprepared, because you never know what a judge might ask for. I also came to understand how essential time management and organization are to being an effective attorney. Many Assistant District Attorneys juggle multiple cases at once, so they must stay within strict time limits and keep track of every case detail. Paying close attention to even the smallest elements is crucial to building a strong case.
One of the biggest challenges of the job was the emotional toll it can take. I worked closely with an attorney who specialized in special victims’ cases, which meant I often had to review very graphic and emotional material. It is essential to separate your emotions from your responsibilities. As difficult as it may be, objectivity is a key element of being an attorney. Overall, I am very grateful for the opportunity to intern at the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office. I learned so much during my time there and feel proud of everything I was able to accomplish. This experience helped me better understand the legal field and confirmed my passion for becoming a lawyer.