Children's Legal Services Intern ( Spring 2027)

International Rescue Committee • Baltimore, MD

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Children’s Legal Services (CLS) Legal Intern supports CLS attorneys providing legal services to unaccompanied youth who entered the United States without a parent or legal guardian and face deportation or removal proceedings. Under attorney supervision, the intern conducts legal and factual research and analysis to support applications for asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), and other humanitarian relief, including T and U visas. The intern may assist with preparation for immigration court hearings and state court custody or guardianship proceedings related to SIJS.

The role includes direct client contact, including initial screenings, follow-up meetings, communications, and assistance with drafting declarations and gathering evidence. The intern also helps prepare immigration applications, legal correspondence, briefs, and court motions; monitors clients’ immigration court proceedings; and maintains accurate client notes and organized case files. The position requires adherence to IRC confidentiality and privacy policies and respectful, culturally sensitive service.

The internship is a hybrid, in-person program in the greater Baltimore area, combining office work, remote work, and field time. Interns are expected to work at least 15 hours per week for 14 weeks, with at least three office days per week; preference is given to candidates able to work 37.5 hours weekly. The internship runs from the required January 27, 2027 orientation through May 16, 2027. It is unpaid and does not include benefits. University credit may be arranged, and eligible interns may receive a $15-per-day per diem reimbursement and reimbursement for mileage on approved activities.

Requirements

• Be currently enrolled in an accredited JD or LLM program.
• Be available for at least 15 hours per week for 14 weeks; interns should be able to work in the office at least three days per week.
• Have a strong desire to help immigrant youth in Maryland.
• Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, and demonstrate strong attention to detail.
• Competency in Microsoft Office, data tracking, and file management.
• Effective communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Patience, understanding, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
• Willingness to learn about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
• Adherence to the IRC code of conduct and volunteer and workplace policies.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish language proficiency.
• Availability to work 37.5 hours per week is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist CLS attorneys with client interviews, follow-up meetings, and client communications.
• Conduct factual research, including country conditions research, and legal research and analysis of client cases.
• Assist clients with initial drafting of personal declarations and other personal fact-finding relevant to immigration applications.
• Draft immigration applications, legal cover letters and briefs, and court motions.
• Assist staff in monitoring the status of clients’ immigration court removal proceedings.
• Record client notes in the case management system and help sort, scan, and file documents in case files.
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those concerning confidentiality and client privacy.
• Respect clients’ beliefs and values and demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and personality differences.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern