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

National Immigrant Justice Center•Chicago, IL

1d•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 NIJC’s 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 LGBTQ and people living with HIV. The intern will support the project’s legal services by conducting intakes, drafting client affidavits and legal briefs, researching client cases, preparing applications, communicating with clients, and completing other assigned tasks. The intern may have the opportunity to appear in immigration court or observe a hearing. PILI law student interns gain hands-on experience with immigration matters such as asylum, removal defense, appeals, immigrant visa petitions, cases involving unaccompanied immigrant children, and advocacy for detained immigrants. Interns work closely with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. 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 people from groups underrepresented in the legal profession. Spanish fluency is preferred; fluency 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.
Ability to communicate regularly with clients in Spanish; Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with attention to detail.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and IT systems.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
Adaptability and flexibility.
Collaboration and teamwork skills.
Excellent time management and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong analytical skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and proactively solve problems.
Experience working with trauma survivors.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Commitment or demonstrated interest in immigration law.

Nice To Haves

Spanish fluency; fluency in other languages will also be considered.
Prior experience in immigration law, though applicants with limited prior experience are welcome.
Lived experience in immigrant communities, membership in marginalized communities, or belonging to a group underrepresented in the legal profession.