Summer 2027 Legal Intern, National Security Project

ACLU - Internships • New York, NY

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The ACLU seeks a Summer Legal Intern in the National Security Project of the ACLU’s National office in New York City. This position is hybrid. Qualifying applicants must currently be matriculated legal students and must be based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship.

The National Security Project fights for people and communities harmed by the government in the name of national security. Recognizing the danger of expansive claims of state power, we advocate for a robust system of checks and balances and for policies that comply with the Constitution, civil liberties, and human rights. Through the courts, Congress, and public education, we strive to ensure that people are able to participate fully in civic life and are free from discrimination, unwarranted suspicion and surveillance, unlawful force and detention, and the stigma and other injustices that result from these abuses.

Requirements

• Currently matriculated legal students who will have completed at least one year of law school before the internship commences.
• Must be based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship.
• Excellent research skills, including conducting internet and legal database research
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to analyze complex legal issues
• Initiative to see projects through to completion
• Commitment to civil liberties, civil rights, and social justice, particularly as they relate to national security, and to the mission of the ACLU
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Nice To Haves

• Be committed to advancing the mission of the ACLU
• Center and embed the principles of equity, inclusion and belonging in their work by demonstrating commitment to diversity with an approach that respects and values multiple perspectives
• Be committed to work collaboratively and respectfully toward resolving obstacles and conflicts

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal and policy research
• Draft memoranda, affidavits, and briefs
• Research prospects for new litigation, including both factual and legal claims
• Research and draft materials for public education

Benefits

• A stipend is available for those students who are lawfully authorized to work.
• Students who receive outside funding are eligible for a partial stipend to bring their total funding up to the level of the ACLU’s stipend amount for the summer.
• Legal interns receive a stipend amount of $24/hour (stipends are taxed)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree