Dymond Hayes
US Attorney’s Office
Houston, TX
What type of work did you do this summer for the USAO?
I was assigned to violent crimes and human rights violations. I completed work and assisted with three criminal trials. I participated in witness preparation, as well as prosecution memos, charging instruments, motions in limine, and jury charge, to name a few.
What was it like to work in an office that prosecutes high-level organized crime?
It was different from anything else that I had experienced, and nothing prepares you for such an encounter. What I appreciated the most is that I was able to work with many different agencies (FBI, Secret Service, ATF, etc.) and was able to dive into complex and stimulating legal work, with laws that at times were ever-changing. Additionally, dealing with these types of crimes allowed me to learn from some of the brightest attorneys that our nation has to offer.
How did your work with federal prosecutors compare to your other work with a non-profit?
My work with federal prosecutors differed from my work in the non-profit sector. When working with federal prosecutors, you are trying to work towards the issuance of justice. The cases that I worked on often had victims that were vulnerable, so there was a pressure to ensure that you do not let them down.
What was your most memorable experience from your summer?
My most memorable experience this summer was working a child exploitation case. I was involved in this case from the start and was able to see it evolve. Being able to see my work product, argued in front of a federal judge and lead to a guilty verdict, is one that I will never forget!
How did a TLF assist you in your summer internship?
TLF provided me with the funding I needed to chase my dreams. Without it, I would not have been able to explore a potential career path fully, in a stress-free environment. The support TLF provided me, allowed me to embrace the public service sector and I am thankful for the work the staff took in helping me reach my goals.