2025 Summer Public Interest Fellow

Miller wearing suit and tie.

Volunteer Organization
Erie County District Attorney's Office, Buffalo, NY

Zachary Miller '26

Freudenheim Fellowship

How would you describe your experience?

My experience at the Erie County District Attorney's Office was incredibly rewarding. Whether it was legal research and writing motions or observing trials in the courtroom, every day provided something to learn. More importantly, everyone at the District Attorney's Office was willing to take the time to teach me about the nuts and bolts of the job, and broad advice about being a career prosecutor. My summer experience gave me insight into the field of public interest law and confirmed my desire to pursue a career in public interest law after law school.

What impacted you the most?

I was impacted most by the human tragedy and redemption possible in criminal law. Watching Buffalo City Court in particular exposed me to a side of Buffalo that I did not know existed. Crime is a tragedy for both the victims and the defendants. But among the tragedy was also the strongest and most resolute people I have ever seen in my life. For example, I spent several days watching Buffalo Opioid Intervention Court, and saw many people who had issues with substance abuse. Drug use had ruined the lives of many of the people appearing in court, and they still had the strength to come to court and tell the judge about their plans for the week and their plans for their life moving forward. In other cases, I was able to see how prosecutors and defense attorneys ensured that justice was done through motions, jury selection, direct and cross examination, and opening and closing arguments.

What would you like to share with our donors?

Thank you to the donors of the Freudenheim Fellowship for giving me the opportunity to pursue my interest in public interest law by taking this internship with the District Attorney's Office. Without your generous support, it would be much more difficult to pay my expenses and I would not have been able to put as much effort into public interest law as I have. This internship was invaluable, and I look forward to continuing a career in public service.