Internship at Alameda County DA Office

During a summer in the late 1980s, Kamala Harris interned at the Alameda County District Attorney's office in Oakland, California. This marked her first significant exposure to the criminal justice system and provided a foundation for her understanding of legal processes and prosecutorial work. At the time, Alameda County was known for its rigorous approach to law enforcement, and the office was under the leadership of District Attorney Jack Meehan. As an intern, Harris was tasked with various responsibilities that gave her a firsthand look into the workings of the legal system. She reviewed case files, attended court proceedings, and assisted in preparing documents. This experience allowed her to observe the intricacies of trial preparation and courtroom dynamics. The opportunity to witness the prosecutorial decision-making process had a profound impact on her, solidifying her interest in pursuing a career in law. Harris's time at the office coincided with a period when crime rates in the United States were rising. According to data, violent crime saw significant increases during the late 1980s. The experience of working in one of the busiest prosecutor's offices exposed her to the challenges faced by the justice system, including issues related to high caseloads and the need for efficient legal practices. The internship also provided Harris with mentorship from experienced attorneys who played pivotal roles in shaping her understanding of the legal profession. These interactions helped her develop a nuanced perspective on justice, fairness, and the importance of community-oriented legal practice. Harris's exposure to the realities of crime and punishment during this period influenced her later work as a prosecutor and politician. Overall, the internship at Alameda County District Attorney's office was a formative experience that contributed significantly to Kamala Harris's career trajectory. It laid the groundwork for her commitment to justice and public service, values that would underpin her future roles as District Attorney of San Francisco, Attorney General of California, and ultimately, Vice President of the United States. #MoofLife #KamalaHarris #LegalCareer #CriminalJustice #PublicService #AlamedaCounty