Volunteers

The DA's Office has a variety of volunteer opportunities. Please review the descriptions below for more information about each opportunity and how to apply.

Jury Trial Experience Project

The DA's Office has worked in partnership with the American College of Trial Lawyers on the Jury Trial Experience Project since August 2008. The project places attorneys (with varying levels of experience) from local civil firms into the Misdemeanor Trial Unit of the DA's Office. Participants commit to working 4 days per week for 4 weeks. During the first 2 days, participants undergo an accelerated orientation and training program. By the end of the first week, participants are assigned their first trial. As time passes, participants are assigned to handle more complex and difficult cases. When not in trial, participants handle probation violation hearings, show-cause hearings, restitution hearings, and other court appearances. Participants will be screened via a criminal background check and pre-participation drug screening.

If you have questions about the project, please contact Senior Deputy DA, Jeff Howes at Jeffrey.Howes@mcda.us. Contact Jury Trial Experience Committee member, Walter Sweek of Cosgrave, Vergeer, Kester at wsweek@cvk-law.com to apply.

Work Opportunities for Students

The DA's Office provides work opportunities for students from the Youth Employment and Empowerment Program, the Private Industry Council, the Portland Urban League, the North Portland Youth and Family Services Center, and the Commission for the Blind. In addition, students from local high schools, community colleges, and universities are invited to participate in internships and training programs.

If you would like further information about this program, please contact Staff Services Manager, Jodi Erickson by email at Jodi.Erickson@mcda.us or by phone at (503) 988-4510, or contact Jamila Williams by email at Jamila.Williams@mcda.us or by phone at (503) 988-5706.

Rape Victim Advocate Program

The role of a Rape Victim Advocate (RVA) is to provide support and information during the forensic medical examination and law enforcement interview. RVAs meet with law enforcement and the sexual assault victim at local hospitals or medical facilities. The purpose of the hospital response is two-fold: to ensure the physical well being of the victim and to collect forensic evidence that may be present.

If this is an opportunity that you are interested in, please complete and submit an application. Applications should be mailed to:

RVA Program
Multnomah District Attorney's Office
1021 S.W. Fourth Avenue
Portland Oregon 97204

Or fax to (503) 988-3304.