Children's Legal Services Intern (Spring 2027)

International Rescue Committee•Silver Spring, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Children’s Legal Services (CLS) Intern assists CLS staff in providing services to unaccompanied youth who entered the United States without a parent or legal guardian and who face deportation or removal in immigration court proceedings. Working closely with CLS staff, the intern supports case management, monitors immigration court proceedings, conducts country-conditions research, drafts immigration applications under attorney supervision, communicates with clients, and helps keep client files current. Client services may also include research and referrals being explored by the social services navigator. The internship provides learning opportunities in U.S. immigration law concerning unaccompanied minors and youth, problem solving, client services, and managing cases within established deadlines. It is unpaid. Spring 2027 interns may be eligible for per diem reimbursement of $15 per day to offset food and travel costs. The role requires in-person work at the Silver Spring office, a minimum of 15 hours per week, and a minimum commitment of 24 hours per week as stated in the semester-specific information. The posting also lists a general requirement of 15 to 37.5 hours weekly, with preference for candidates able to work 37.5 hours. Spring 2027 interns are expected to attend an in-person orientation on January 25, 2027, from 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The position reports to the Managing Attorney or another designated Legal Staff Member.

Requirements

Undergraduate-level studies or equivalent experience in public-service community work.
Ability to work at least 15 hours per week; the posting also states a minimum 24-hour weekly commitment for the semester-specific internship.
Ability to work in person at the Silver Spring office.
Strong desire to help immigrant youth in Maryland.
Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, and maintain close 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 IRC's code of conduct, volunteer policies, and workplace policies.

Nice To Haves

Spanish language proficiency; Spanish is not required, but fluency in written and spoken Spanish may be used for occasional translation and interpretation.
Availability to work 37.5 hours per week is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist CLS staff in providing client services, including scheduling consultations and drafting immigration applications under the supervision of an immigration attorney.
Research factual, legal, and social-service issues.
Help monitor clients’ immigration court removal proceedings.
Sort, scan, and file documents in client case files.
Follow IRC policies, particularly those concerning confidentiality and client privacy.
Respect clients’ beliefs and values and show sensitivity to cultural and personality differences.
Communicate with clients for follow-up.
Provide occasional translation and interpretation if fluent in written and spoken Spanish.
Perform other related duties as assigned.