About Our Job

Join our diverse, inclusive and talented workforce of more than 11,000 team members who are at the heart of what makes Denver, Denver.

What We Offer

This is an on-call position, which means it is a part-time, hourly role. Fellowships have with standard compensation of $30 per hour or $60,000 over a 12-month period. Fellows do not receive health benefits or other benefits. Fellows can take advantage of Denver’s Summit Savings plan. The Summit Savings plan is a voluntary retirement plan similar to a 401(k) but known in Internal Revenue Code as a 457(b) for government employees.

Location & Schedule

The Denver's City Attorney's Office supports a hybrid model workplace where employees work where needed in a city site or telecommute remotely within the State of Colorado. Telecommuting allows employees to work three (3) days per work week in their designated City building or other authorized City location and two (2) days per work week at an alternate location (i.e., work from home).

Who We Are & What You’ll Do

The Denver City Attorney’s Office is offering a one-year fellowship opportunity beginning September 1, 2026. This position will support the Prosecution and Code Enforcement Section (PACE).

The Prosecution and Code Enforcement Section (PACE) prosecutes violations of municipal ordinances and certain state misdemeanors, including traffic offenses and domestic violence cases, while also handling nuisance abatement and administrative matters related to licensing, excise, and regulated industries. PACE attorneys are on the front lines of issues that directly affect the safety, wellbeing, and quality of life of Denver residents.

PACE offers a unique fellowship for law students interested in hands-on litigation, public service, and community-centered justice. As a PACE Fellow, you will work alongside experienced prosecutors, victim advocates, and city partners to address complex and evolving challenges such as domestic violence, mental health, substance use, nuisance properties, and emerging regulatory issues. This is an opportunity to gain meaningful legal experience while contributing to work that has a visible and immediate impact.

In addition to traditional prosecution, PACE plays a leading role in innovative, problem-solving approaches to justice. The section participates in specialty dockets and collaborative programs focused on reducing recidivism and connecting individuals to services, including wellness and mental health-focused courts, diversion and outreach programs, and community-based partnerships addressing housing, safety, and public health challenges. PACE works closely with law enforcement, city agencies, community organizations, and residents to develop practical, equitable solutions to complex issues.

PACE Fellows are fully integrated into the team and gain exposure to a wide range of legal work. Depending on experience and certification, fellows may:

• Appear in court under supervision and assist with hearings and case preparation

• Support the prosecution of municipal and state misdemeanor cases

• Conduct legal research and draft motions, briefs, and other legal documents

• Work directly with victims and witnesses, helping them navigate the legal process

• Collaborate with city agencies and community partners to address nuisance and public safety issues

• Contribute to administrative and regulatory matters, including licensing and marijuana-related issues

• Observe and participate in specialty courts, diversion programs, and problem-solving initiatives

What Makes This Fellowship Unique

• Hands-on courtroom experience, including opportunities to appear in court and contribute to active cases

• Immediate responsibility with meaningful work that goes beyond observation

• Direct community impact through supporting victims, improving neighborhood safety, and engaging with real-world issues

• Exposure to diverse practice areas, including criminal law, administrative law, and public policy

• A collaborative environment working alongside attorneys, advocates, and community partners

• Insight into innovative justice models focused on prevention, intervention, and long-term outcomes

What You’ll Learn

• Practical litigation skills and courtroom procedure

• How to evaluate cases and exercise prosecutorial discretion

• Effective communication with victims, witnesses, and opposing counsel

• The role of local government in addressing complex social challenges

• How legal systems intersect with public health, housing, and community safety

What You’ll Bring

Fellows will be recent graduates of Colorado Law who are hard-working, energetic, able to connect effectively with clients and colleagues, and capable of handling significant responsibility immediately. Fellows must contribute to the diverse and creative thinking of the CAO and must show initiative and seek out projects and feedback.

• Anticipated Graduation – Must be an anticipated JD graduate of the University of Colorado, Class of 2026 (LLM graduates are not eligible).

• Commitment to Public Service – A strong desire to serve the City and County of Denver and support its residents through legal excellence.

• Solid Legal Foundation – Strong understanding of legal principles, research, and writing skills developed through law school coursework and experience.

• Ethical Judgment & Professionalism – Commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and high ethical standards in all work.

• Curiosity & Innovation – Openness to learning about municipal law and finding creative approaches to improve city operations and legal processes.

In addition, our ideal candidate has some or all the following experience, skills, and characteristics:

• Interested in litigation, public service, or criminal law

• Strong writers and critical thinkers

• Comfortable engaging with diverse communities and sensitive issues

• Adaptable and interested in hands-on learning

• Motivated to contribute to work that serves the public

Application Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must submit the following documents at the time of application. Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.

• College Transcripts – Official or unofficial

• Cover Letter – Include the area(s) of law you are most interested in and explain why you are interested in this position

• Legal Writing Sample

• Resume

• References

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Education requirement: Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree or Bachelor degree.

• Fellows need not be admitted to practice law if they have taken the bar exam and are eligible to practice with appropriate supervision. Fellow who don’t pass the bar exam may be terminated, or transferred to an intern classification or other applicable classification, at the discretion of and in accordance with the policies of the DCAO.

• Experience Requirement: None

• Education/Experience Equivalency: No substitution of experience for education is permitted.

• License/Certifications: None

Application Deadline

This position is expected to stay open until Friday, May 15, 2026. Please submit your application as soon as possible and no later than May 15 at 11:59 PM to ensure consideration.  

About Everything Else

Job Profile

CL3228 Attorney Fellow

To view the full job profile including position specifications, physical demands, and probationary period, click here.

Position Type

Oncall

Position Salary Range

$23.89 - $35.84

Target Pay

$30/hour

Agency

City Attorney's Office

The City and County of Denver provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law. 

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