Lily Leffler '26

Working at the Erie County District Attorney's Office this summer provided me with an extremely valuable learning experience. Each week was spent primarily in the courtroom, which I found beneficial because it allowed me to work closely with assistant district attorneys and regularly observe court proceedings. Additionally, I was given my own assignments to complete. I was able to utilize legal research databases to prepare motions. I also had the opportunity to use evidence databases such as the Prosecutors Case Management System (PCMS) and Evidence.com, which allowed me to understand the importance of body camera footage, police documentation, and the discovery process as a whole. Overall, this internship experience highlighted the significance of the prosecution's role in victim advocacy and public safety.

This internship provided me with the opportunity to witness the impact of legal decisions on individuals and communities. I found that the court observations and correspondence with victims helped solidify the significance of the prosecution's role. Without this legal role, there would be a notable void in the judicial process as prosecution ensures laws are enforced both fairly and effectively. Furthermore, this internship helped me understand the importance of attention to detail, analytical skills, and effective communication. The prosecution interacts with defense counsel, judges, police officers, and other government agencies regularly. Each interaction helps to prove defendants' guilt, ensure justice for victims of such defendants, and communicate fair punishment for the crimes committed.

I would like to thank the donors to the Bufalo Public Interest Law Program (BPILP) for their generous fellowship donations. These donations provided significant financial relief and allowed me to concentrate on my internship at the Erie County District Attorney's Office. I decided to accept this unpaid internship because I knew that the experience would be invaluable and acknowledge that having this funding allowed me to take on additional tasks that I may not otherwise have had time to complete as quickly or as effectively as I was able to. I am very appreciative of this funding because it enabled me to develop skills that I will use during my entire legal career.