Closing Date: 15th May, 2026

Description:

Job Description:
Legal interns conduct legal research and writing on issues of civil rights compliance in DOJ-funded programs and on issues of constitutional law and jurisdiction affecting the rights of incarcerated individuals. Interns also support staff attorneys with assigned cases by reviewing civil rights complaints of discrimination and assisting with investigations. Interns will have the opportunity to join OCR staff at DOJ-sponsored events that may occur. OCR's goal is to introduce legal interns to the federal legal system and 
civil rights matters, to assist in developing their legal skills, and to offer a rewarding internship experience.

This is NOT a remote Internship. This internship will be in-person at the Washington, DC location.

Qualifications:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Law student MUST be enrolled at least half-time and have completed at least one semester of law school from an accredited institution. Part-time law students and joint-degree candidates may also apply.
  • First-year (second semester), second- and third-year law students are encouraged to apply.
  • Availability to participate for full duration of the internship.
  • Must commit to work 12 hours per week for a minimum of 10 continuous weeks.
  • Prior to entry on duty, all interns must undergo a suitability/fitness determination based on information provided in their pre-employment paperwork.
  • Drug Testing may be required prior to entry on duty.

Preferred Qualification:
Outstanding analytical, research and writing skills, attention to detail, and a demonstrated interest in civil rights and public interest law.

Salary:
Volunteer (uncompensated). Course credit, work-study, and externship opportunities are available depending on school requirements.

Number of Positions
3

Travel:
Not Required

Relocation Expenses
Not provided