District 18’s Justice Is Blind Clerkship Opens Eyes and Minds
By This past summer, I had the opportunity to work with the judges of District 18 in a program led by Judge Scarlett and Judge Pendergrass called “Justice is Blind.” Over the course of the program, I observed many district court proceedings, spent time breaking down statutes, conducted legal research on upcoming and current cases, practiced oral advocacy and engaged in thoughtful discussions about injustice in the legal system.
Before starting the clerkship, I was assigned books, podcasts, and even a movie about different historical injustices. These materials helped to frame the issues for me. They also served as a foundation for challenging lunchtime conversations and for open-minded observation of court proceedings throughout the summer. I learned that, while each judge has a unique way of presiding over a courtroom and doing the hard work of understanding the nuances of the law, each judge must also grapple with the nuances of systemic issues. Throughout the internship, my fellow clerk and I practiced oral advocacy by arguing hypothetical cases. We would work on the structure before each practice and receive feedback afterward. At the end of the internship, we each chose an old DWI case to give a closing argument to one of the judges. At this point, we were well versed in the evidentiary requirements needed to meet the standards set forth in N.C.G.S. § 20-138.1. The challenging part was arguing before the judge, as well as other observers, which included several other judges, attorneys and others. After I finished and could breathe again, I received better feedback than I had expected. I felt proud to do something I had not even imagined would be possible just a few months before.
I went into this experience with intention and excitement. If I walked into court and didn’t recognize an intern, an attorney, a paralegal or another court staff member, I introduced myself and got to know them. I took pictures with our speakers because it’s always easier to remember a name with a face. I arrived at court early enough to get situated in the courthouse we were in that day. When I was confused or intrigued by a ruling, a concept I was unfamiliar with or a court practice I had not seen before I took every opportunity to ask questions. When I heard a speaker whose career was of interest to me, I asked them questions about their day-to-day, their challenges and their favorite parts of their roles. In addition to connecting with the speakers, I got to know the judges and their individual paths to their seats. I learned about their interests, backgrounds and favorite local restaurants. The recommendations were delicious, by the way. I learned from the judges that their goal in court isn’t just that justice is done, although that is very important. Each judge I worked with is also very committed to ensuring that each party, no matter their representation, feels that they have been heard. Even if a party is unhappy with the verdict, appeals or other outcomes, the system has worked well if they feel that they were listened to.
I noticed during the clerkship that other interns in the courtroom, who were not a part of my program, were hesitant. They were hesitant to ask the judge questions after the court adjourned. They were reluctant to take advantage of networking with visiting and local attorneys. I would tell students interested in public interest or clerkship opportunities to be vulnerable and eager. There are so many people you get the chance to interact with, and so many stories that could be missed. It is important to let people get to know you. The legal profession may seem daunting, but behind the formality, the titles and the seriousness of what is taking place, there are just people. Whether it be in court, in a bar meeting, a CLE, or another organizational event, taking the time to get to know others in the profession will not only open doors but also make you feel more comfortable.
My clerkship has left a lasting impact on my law school journey. I was able to see the legal concepts I had been studying all year in action. I got to see the lulls in court as well as the procedural aspects. I learned about how calendar call works and what happens when litigants or their attorneys are late. I went into my evidence class with a better understanding of how evidence is presented to witnesses. I saw how quickly objections are asserted. I witnessed the informality of chambers. I saw how collegial attorneys actually are when not in the adversarial setting of the courtroom. Seeing how district court was conducted in real life gave me a different appreciation as I read cases for class. I now find myself trying to envision the scene, the passion of the litigants, the frustration of the waiting game, and the importance of the decision in each context. I am excited and thankful to be able to study law.
Finally, I gained the confidence to attack my imposter syndrome. Each scary step I take on my law school journey, my dream of becoming an attorney becomes more real. The more I speak to attorneys and judges, the more I come to know that they are still learning, and sometimes they make mistakes, and they were once just as nervous as I was. Humanizing those we idolize makes the dream feel more attainable. I am so thankful for this experience because it helped me grow in gaining confidence, knowledge, connections and friendships.
Aaliyah LeCompte is a second-year law student at North Carolina Central University School of Law. Aaliyah received a $1,000 scholarship from the NCBA’s Government & Public Sector Section to support her internship with the 18th Judicial District’s Justice Is Blind Program in Summer 2025. Each year, the GPS awards one or more scholarships to law students who show demonstrated interest in public service and who work in an unpaid summer internship in a federal, state or local government office in North Carolina.