DPD's 2025 Rule 9 interns grouped together on a stairwell

From First Appearance to ‘Not Guilty:’ DPD’s interns conclude a summer of impactful representation for their clients

Last week, DPD’s summer interns concluded their 10-week program representing clients through Washington’s unique Rule 9 license, which allows closely supervised law students to speak on the record in court. With the support of experienced supervisors and in partnership with attorneys in DPD’s misdemeanor units, interns gained invaluable experience defending clients from their first appearance…

A summer of substantive work: DPD’s interns learn what it means to stand with clients

DPD’s 19 interns just wrapped up a 10-week program. Four of them talked to us about what made it meaningful — from arguing motions, to challenging search warrants, to going to trial. Most meaningful, they said, was working with clients, fighting on behalf of people ensnared in a harmful system.