Non-Legal Intern - Spring 2027

Human Rights First•Washington, DC

10d•Remote

About The Position

Human Rights First seeks a non-legal intern to support its D.C. team and Refugee Representation program during Spring 2027. The program provides non-legal assistance to asylum seekers who cannot afford an attorney and need assistance with asylum or other humanitarian-based immigration relief. Interns engage directly with clients and contribute non-legal skills to their cases while advancing Human Rights First’s mission to promote respect for human rights and the rule of law in the United States. The internship may be performed remotely and is unpaid. It requires a computer and internet connection and involves a commitment of 15–20 hours per week. The internship runs from January 29, 2027, through April 23, 2027. Human Rights First will assist interns with externship credit, work-study, or securing funding from external sources. Applicants should submit a cover letter, résumé, and writing sample by November 17, 2026.

Requirements

Enrolled in undergraduate or graduate school, or a recent graduate.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Non-legal research and writing skills, particularly in immigration law, administrative law, federal law, and federal regulations.
Dedicated interest in and passion for immigration advocacy, direct client representation, and protecting the rights of migrants.
Ability to work collaboratively with staff, clients, and community organizations.
Motivation to work independently and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
A computer and internet connection are required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with vulnerable populations and survivors of trauma.
Fluency in a second language, particularly Spanish.

Responsibilities

Interview clients and conduct screening interviews with potential clients.
Draft case summaries and assist with document drafting and forms completion.
Work with Human Rights First staff on asylum cases, including country-conditions work and other non-legal advocacy efforts.
Support case strategy and direct representation through non-legal strategy, advocacy, research, and brief writing.
Update and maintain databases.
Conduct non-legal research on developing areas of immigration law and country conditions for analysis and reporting.
Collaborate with attorneys, staff, clients, and community organizations.
Attend non-legal trainings, advocacy groups, and discussion panels in the greater D.C. area and virtually.