Company Description

Barnes & Fersten is proud to be one of East Tennessee’s premier DUI & criminal defense law firms. Located in Knoxville, we travel to more than a dozen counties across East Tennessee. A rapidly growing law firm with four (4) attorneys who work collaboratively towards providing a one-of-a-kind client experience while accomplishing the best possible result based on the facts and circumstances of our clients' case. Barnes & Fersten, PLLC is centered on providing second chances, built on the belief that a single mistake should not define an individual’s future.

Role Description

We are seeking a 2L law student who is enthusiastic about the prospect of becoming a criminal defense attorney in Knoxville upon graduation in 2027. Top 33% is preferred and any prior experience in criminal defense or prosecution. We intend to train the summer associate into being an associate attorney at the firm upon bar passage in 2027.

Please email a copy of your resume, cover letter, writing sample and transcript to Brandon Fersten at Brandon@knoxcrimdefense.com.

The goal of our summer associate program is to teach a 2L law student the unique Barnes & Fersten way of handling criminal cases from beginning to end. Summer associates will work closely with attorneys to prepare cases for court and to learn by appearing in court with attorneys to watch how case preparation turns into results that make an impact on clients' lives. Summer associates will be involved in potential client calls and meetings, case reviews with clients, conduct mock negotiations, prepare letters to prosecutors, draft motions for court filings, and attend negotiations, preliminary hearings, motion hearings and potentially jury trials.

Summer associates will develop a personalized legal strategy for each case based on video evidence, 911 calls, interviewing witnesses and/or experts, recommending any course of alcohol, drug or mental health treatment or services, and researching to develop all potential defenses that put our clients in the best position for the best potential outcome based on the facts and circumstances of their case. The summer associate will prepare motions, letters to prosecutors, and memorandums to attorneys.

Qualifications

Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with clients and team members.
Excellent research and writing skills for legal analysis, documentation, and case preparation.
Ability to work in a detail-oriented, fast-paced environment with a focus on professionalism.
Currently enrolled in an accredited law school with a strong academic record. Preferably a rising 3L.
A genuine interest in criminal defense and creating second chances for clients.
Preferably top 33%

Barnes & Fersten, PLLC

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Summer Associate