Career Development: San Francisco District Attorney's Office Homicide Unit Legal Internship, Class of 2027

During my internship with the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office, I had the opportunity to engage deeply with the inner workings of the criminal justice system and observe how law shapes lives every single day. Working alongside attorneys and staff dedicated to public service gave me a firsthand look at both the rewards and complexities of pursuing justice in a large urban setting. I assisted with drafting motions, analyzing evidence, and participating in a mock trial exercise that strengthened my confidence in legal writing and courtroom communication. Sitting in on two concurrent homicide trials was especially impactful—it revealed how deeply human every case is, showing that justice requires both precision and compassion. Each day reminded me that law is not abstract; it’s a living system that must balance accountability with empathy. Through my time in San Francisco, I grew not only as a future attorney but as a person. Observing how prosecutors navigated difficult ethical decisions helped me understand that justice cannot exist without integrity. Conversations with mentors taught me that true advocacy is about listening as much as leading, and that every decision—big or small—can alter the course of someone’s life. This experience enriched my commitment to using the law as a tool for social impact. It challenged me to think critically about equity, reform, and the role of public defenders and prosecutors in creating fair outcomes. Most importantly, it reminded me that pursuing justice means striving not only for legal victories, but for human understanding.

- By Autumn G. Gary