Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI) Spring 2027 Intern LGBTQ Project

National Immigrant Justice Center•Chicago, IL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is hosting a law student intern during the Spring 2027 semester for its LGBTQ Immigrant Rights Initiative. This hybrid position requires one day per week in the Chicago Loop office and has a 200-hour requirement for the semester. The LGBTQ Immigrant Rights Initiative provides legal services to low-income immigrants who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), and to people living with HIV. The intern will support the project's legal services by conducting client intakes, drafting affidavits and legal briefs, researching client cases, preparing applications, and communicating with clients. Other tasks may be assigned. The intern may have an opportunity to appear in immigration court and/or observe a hearing. PILI law student interns gain hands-on experience with a range of immigration matters, including asylum cases, removal defense, appeals, immigrant visa petitions, issues affecting unaccompanied immigrant children, and detained immigrant advocacy. Interns work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and may have opportunities to observe or participate in court proceedings. NIJC welcomes applicants with a demonstrated interest in immigration law, including those with limited prior experience, and particularly encourages applications from people with lived experience in immigrant communities, members of marginalized communities, and groups underrepresented in the legal profession. Applicants should submit a resume and a brief cover letter describing their interest in the role, why the work resonates with them, and relevant experience connected to NIJC's mission and the position's responsibilities. The role requires regular communication with clients in Spanish; Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred, though proficiency in other languages will also be considered. Experience working with trauma survivors and the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines are critical.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in law school.
Experience working with trauma survivors.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with attention to detail.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and IT systems.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Adaptability and flexibility.
Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team.
Excellent time-management skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and proactively solve problems.
Regular communication with clients in Spanish is required; Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

Fluency in a relevant second language; proficiency in languages other than Spanish will also be considered.
Demonstrated interest in immigration law; prior experience may be limited.
Lived experience in immigrant communities, membership in marginalized communities, or belonging to a group underrepresented in the legal profession.