Summer 2026 Legal Intern, Capital Punishment Project- Justice Division

ACLU - Internships • Durham, NC

98d • $24

About The Position

The ACLU seeks a Summer Legal Intern in the Capital Punishment Project, Justice Division of the ACLU’s National office in Durham, N.C. This position is hybrid. Qualifying applicants must currently be matriculated legal students and must be based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship. The Capital Punishment Project, part of the ACLU’s Center for Justice, challenges the unfairness and arbitrariness of capital punishment while working toward the ultimate goal of abolishing the death penalty. The Project engages in public advocacy and strategic litigation, including the direct representation of capital defendants, challenges to systemic problems in the administration of capital punishment, and amicus briefing.

Requirements

• Complete 1 year of law school before the internship commences
• A demonstrated/strong interest in the abolition of the death penalty and a commitment to civil rights
• Excellent research, writing and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently as well as in a team
• Strong computer skills, particularly web-based research and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e. Word, Excel)
• Initiative to see projects through to completion

Responsibilities

• Conducting legal and policy research
• Drafting memoranda, affidavits, and briefs
• Researching prospects for new litigation, including both factual and legal claims
• Researching and drafting materials for public education

Benefits

• A stipend amount of $24/hour for those students who are lawfully authorized to work

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees