Closing Date: 15th February, 2026

Description:

About the Office:
The Office of Foreign Litigation (OFL) safeguards the United States Government's interests in litigation pending in foreign courts, handling both civil and criminal matters, with the majority of cases being defensive in nature. These cases span a broad array of issues reflecting the extensive international activities of the U.S. government. OFL is also responsible for affirmative litigation, undertaking cases such as those involving procurement fraud or disputes arising from federal contracts abroad. Staff attorneys coordinate with other Department of Justice components, federal agencies, and U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to address complex legal challenges presented by foreign legal systems. The office provides authoritative advice and works to secure successful outcomes in cases that may have far-reaching diplomatic and legal consequences.

The Office of International Judicial Assistance (OIJA) is designated as the United States Central Authority for several significant international conventions. These include the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters, the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or Commercial Matters, the Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory, and its Additional Protocol. OIJA fulfills U.S. treaty obligations by processing over 500 formal requests for evidence originating from foreign courts each year, ensuring compliance with U.S. law and procedure. In addition to facilitating these cross-border judicial processes, OIJA interprets complex treaties and collaborates with both domestic and international partners. The office's efforts help maintain the rule of law and promote international cooperation in civil litigation, serving as an essential resource for federal, state, and local authorities seeking or responding to judicial assistance from abroad.

Job Description:
Interns with OFL and OIJA during the Summer 2026 semester will contribute to a caseload focused on international litigation and treaty-based judicial assistance. Duties will vary but are expected to include:

Conducting legal research and analysis on international, administrative, and comparative law topics
Reviewing and assessing incoming requests for judicial assistance from foreign courts for compliance with applicable treaties and statutes
Drafting memoranda, legal correspondence (e.g., referral or rejection letters), and case summaries
Supporting litigation strategy through fact development, legal interpretation, and coordination with DOJ components and overseas posts

All work must be conducted on site in the Washington, DC office. Remote work is not permitted.

Qualifications:
Term & Work Schedule

Summer Term: May/June 2026 – August 2026
Minimum required weekly hours: 40 hours per week (full-time)
Minimum total duration: 8–10 continuous weeks, to be determined in coordination with the Office of Foreign Litigation

Eligibility Requirements:

U.S. citizenship or national status
Must be a current first- or second-year law student
Completion of at least one year of law school by the start of the internship
Must be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited law school program
Good academic standing at the law school
Ability to obtain and maintain a background investigation/clearance
Enrollment status must be maintained throughout the duration of service

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated legal research and writing experience
Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, coursework such as international law, civil procedure, or comparative law
Interest or academic background in international law, civil litigation, or treaty law
Foreign language proficiency helpful but not required
Ability to work independently, manage assignments, and meet deadlines
Strong commitment to professionalism, sound judgment, and confidentiality

Salary:
Positions are unpaid. Interns may receive academic credit or funding through external programs such as Federal Work Study, if applicable. Transit subsidy available for in-person commuting.

Number of Positions
5

Travel:

Not required

Relocation Expenses
Not provided