Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI)Summer Intern 2027 Detention Team

National Immigrant Justice Center • Chicago, IL

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is hiring a law student intern for its Detention Team for Summer 2027. The internship is hybrid, with one day per week required at the Chicago Loop office, and has a 300-hour requirement for the summer.

The Detention Project provides legal orientation, screening, and representation for immigrant adults held in ICE detention facilities across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Kentucky. The intern will support legal work for detained non-citizens and their families, including intake, case preparation, research, and participation in immigration court hearings alongside a supervising legal representative. The role also includes trainings and review of legal materials to stay current on immigration law and policies.

NIJC welcomes applicants with a demonstrated interest in immigration law, including those with limited prior experience. Applicants with lived experience in immigrant communities, members of marginalized communities, and people from groups underrepresented in the legal profession are particularly encouraged to apply. Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred because the position requires regular communication with clients in Spanish.

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 skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively solve problems.
• Interest in immigration law; applicants with limited prior experience are welcome.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish proficiency.
• Lived experience in immigrant communities, membership in marginalized communities, or belonging to a group underrepresented in the legal profession.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake interviews with detained non-citizens and their family members.
• Present intake interviews for legal assessment.
• Prepare immigration cases for filing with a supervising legal representative.
• Prepare affidavits and indexes, and gather supporting documents.
• Prepare for and appear at Executive Office for Immigration Review hearings, including master calendar, individual, and/or bond hearings, alongside a supervising legal representative.
• Conduct country research and draft country-conditions sections of filings.
• Participate in trainings and review legal materials to remain current on immigration law and policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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