Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI) Spring 2027 Intern Children's Project

National Immigrant Justice Center • Chicago, IL

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is hosting a law student intern for the Spring 2027 semester with its Children's Protection Project. The internship requires 200 hours during the semester and is hybrid; interns should expect to work from NIJC's Chicago Loop office approximately two days per week, with additional in-person attendance for client meetings.

PILI Law Student Interns gain hands-on experience with immigration matters such as asylum cases, removal defense, appeals, immigrant visa petitions, matters affecting unaccompanied immigrant children, and detained immigrant advocacy. The Children's Protection Project represents immigrant youth before USCIS and immigration court. Most clients are unaccompanied children previously released from government shelters to sponsors in the service area. The team primarily handles asylum and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, as well as other forms of humanitarian immigration relief.

Interns support client preparation for asylum interviews and immigration court hearings through evidence gathering, affidavit preparation, country conditions research, client contact, and legal research. Applicants should be prepared to work with youth of various ages in a trauma-informed manner. Interns may have opportunities to observe or participate in court proceedings and will work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in law school.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and IT systems.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills, adaptability, flexibility, collaboration, and teamwork.
• Excellent time management skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively solve problems.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred because the position requires regular communication with clients in Spanish.
• Fluency in another relevant second language is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in immigration law; prior experience may be limited.
• Lived experience in immigrant communities, membership in marginalized communities, or belonging to groups underrepresented in the legal profession is particularly welcomed.

Responsibilities

• Prepare clients for asylum interviews and immigration court hearings.
• Gather evidence and prepare affidavits.
• Conduct country conditions research and legal research to support representation of immigrant youth.
• Communicate with clients and provide miscellaneous client contact.
• Work with youth of various ages in a trauma-informed manner.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed