Spring 2027 Legal Intern, Criminal Law Reform Project

ACLU • York, NY

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The ACLU seeks a Spring Legal Intern for the Criminal Law Reform Project at its National office. This is a hybrid position based in New York, NY. The Criminal Law Reform Project advocates for the constitutional and civil rights of individuals impacted by criminal legal systems. They use litigation and advocacy to address systemic government conduct that contributes to the carceral state, police abuse, and oppression based on race and class. The project's goals include ensuring dignity and fairness for those accused or convicted of crimes, shifting power to under-resourced communities, and promoting justice and safety that upholds fundamental rights. Current priorities include combating police violence, protecting pretrial liberty, eliminating excessive post-release supervision, and establishing robust public defense systems. The project collaborates with the ACLU's National Political Advocacy Department, Communications Department, and affiliates.

Requirements

• Currently matriculated legal students
• Based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship
• Completed at least one year of law school before the internship commences
• Excellent research skills, including conducting internet and legal database research
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and writing
• Attention to detail, excellent organizing and time-management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• The initiative to see projects through to completion
• A commitment to civil liberties, civil rights, and racial justice

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

• Assisting in factual investigation
• Legal research and writing to advance litigation and integrated advocacy
• Supporting CLRP litigation work and integrated advocacy across priority areas
• Legal research
• Legal writing, such as memos and portions of court submissions
• Fact investigation
• Support in preparation for and during court cases, such as depositions, oral argument, hearings, or trial

Benefits

• Internship is being offered for course credit only.
• This internship must be tied to the intern’s formal education program by integrated coursework or the receipt of academic credit.

What This Job Offers

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