EDWARDSVILLE — The Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office is pleased to welcome a new class of summer interns who will gain hands-on experience working alongside prosecutors and staff in a wide range of criminal justice matters.
Throughout the summer, interns will have the opportunity to assist with legal research, observe court proceedings, support case preparation, and learn directly from experienced attorneys. Upper-level students also will gain courtroom experience prosecuting traffic and misdemeanor cases, under the guidance of experienced prosecutors. An Illinois Supreme Court rule (Rule 711) allows upper-level law students to obtain a temporary law license if they serve an internship at a prosecutor’s office, meaning they can prosecute actual cases, in a courtroom and before a judge.
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This summer’s law school interns are:
• Peter Khoukaz, Saint Louis University School of Law • Anna Stearns, Southern Illinois University School of Law • Nicholas Freda, Saint Louis University School of Law
The interns said they’re eager to develop their skills and learn about prosecution.
“Law school teaches the principles of the law, but this internship provides me the opportunity to see those principles applied in real time,” Khoukaz said. “That experience will be beneficial no matter what area of law I ultimately decide to pursue.”
"I have always been drawn to criminal prosecution because it combines public service with the pursuit of justice,” Stearns said. “This internship will provide me the opportunity to learn from experienced prosecutors and gain firsthand insight into the role I hope to pursue in the future."
“This internship will allow me to put all the hard classroom work into practice,” Freda said. “I’m confident that my internship will prepare me for the legal world and provide me with the skill set to tackle any challenge.”
The internship program is designed to provide law students with meaningful exposure to the day-to-day responsibilities of a prosecutor’s office, while reinforcing the office’s commitment to justice and public service.
State’s Attorney Tom Haine emphasized the value of the internship program in preparing the next generation of prosecutors and other legal professionals.
“Our internship program offers law students a unique opportunity to experience the practice of law in a real and impactful way,” Haine said. “Interns are not simply observing — they are contributing to the work of the office, gaining insight into how cases are built, and seeing firsthand the responsibility and rewards that come with serving as a prosecutor.”
Haine also noted the importance of mentorship and practical experience.
“We are committed to providing interns with meaningful mentorship and exposure to all aspects of prosecution,” he said. “This is an opportunity to develop skills, build professional relationships, and better understand the role prosecutors play in protecting the community and supporting victims.”
More information about internship opportunities with the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office is available at the office’s website, www.madcosao.gov, or by calling the office, (618) 692-6280.
