Summer Knight, Class of 2025
Summer Knight has spent most of her internship surrounded by Liberty and Justice. While Liberty and Justice happen to be the names of the two office cats, these are also the ideals that she is passionate about achieving for her clients.
“I care a lot about people, especially people who may have additional disadvantages compared to others who are criminalized,” said Knight, a 2L at LSU Law.
Under attorney Rhonda Covington, Knight completed an internship with the 20th Judicial District Court Public Defender’s Office covering East Feliciana and West Feliciana parishes. Knight attended court twice a week, helped develop case theories for upcoming trials, and interviewed clients.
Knight says it was a surreal experience for her to work in her hometown, but she has also gained a new perspective on public defense.
“I saw the importance of people having an advocate in their corner,” Knight said. “I remember hearing judges and attorneys use words I didn’t even understand. I can see how that can be intimidating for someone with charges against them.”
She also witnessed how underfunded many public defender’s offices are, with the 20th JDC employing one full-time attorney and four contracting attorneys to cover two parishes. Knight says her Public Interest Law Society fellowship is the reason the 20th JDC could afford to hire her for the summer.
“I think a lot of people are interested in this work but don’t consider it because of the underfunding,” Knight said. “I am very grateful to both the Dean’s Council for the funding they’ve provided for me, and to the staff at the Public Defender’s Office for inviting me to work with them.”
