Children's Legal Services Intern ( Spring 2027)

International Rescue Committee • Baltimore, MD

8h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Children’s Legal Services (CLS) Legal Intern supports CLS attorneys serving unaccompanied youth who entered the United States without a parent or legal guardian and face removal proceedings in immigration court. Under attorney supervision, the intern conducts legal and factual research and analysis for 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 also involves direct client interactions, including initial screenings, follow-up meetings, drafting declarations, and gathering and preparing evidence. Administrative duties include keeping client notes current and organizing and maintaining case files.

The spring 2027 internship runs for 14 weeks, from the week of January 27 through May 16, 2027, following a required orientation on January 27. Interns work at least 15 hours per week, with a preference for candidates available for 37.5 hours, and must be able to work in the office at least three days per week. The internship is hybrid, combining office work, remote work, and field time in the greater Baltimore area. Interns are issued an IRC laptop. The position is unpaid; university credit may be arranged, and eligible interns may receive a $15-per-day per diem reimbursement and reimbursement for approved activity-related mileage.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited JD or LLM program.
• Available to work at least 15 hours per week for 14 weeks; availability for 37.5 hours per week is preferred.
• Able to work in the office at least three days per week.
• Strong desire to help immigrant youth in Maryland.
• Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, and maintain 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, volunteer policies, and workplace policies.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish language proficiency is a plus but is not required.
• Availability to work 37.5 hours per week is preferred.

Responsibilities

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

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern