Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI) Summer Intern 2027 Immigrant Legal Defense

National Immigrant Justice Center • Chicago, IL

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI) Summer Intern will work with the National Immigrant Justice Center’s Immigrant Legal Defense Team during the Summer 2027 semester, supporting the Immigration Court Helpdesk. The internship offers hands-on experience with immigration matters and direct legal services for low-income individuals seeking lawful permanent residence, citizenship, visas, and other protections from deportation. The position is hybrid, with 2–3 days per week required in the Chicago Loop office, and has a 300-hour summer requirement.

Work includes preparing cases by completing forms, gathering documents, and assembling filings; meeting with clients and respondents; preparing applications and motions for court; and assisting in person at the Chicago Immigration Court Helpdesk, which provides free legal orientations and limited services to people without representation in removal proceedings before the Chicago and Indianapolis Immigration Courts. Court observations with an attorney may occur if scheduled. Other tasks may be assigned.

NIJC advances human rights and due process for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers through direct legal services, impact litigation, advocacy, and public education. Applicants should be currently enrolled in law school and demonstrate an interest in immigration law. Applicants with limited prior experience are welcome. NIJC particularly encourages applications from people with lived experience in immigrant communities, members of marginalized communities, and people from groups underrepresented in the legal profession.

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 and flexibility.
• Collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Excellent time-management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively solve problems.
• Availability to complete the 300-hour summer requirement.
• Ability to work in a hybrid arrangement requiring 2–3 days per week in the Chicago Loop office.

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.
• Experience related to NIJC’s mission and the position’s responsibilities.
• Lived experience in immigrant communities, membership in marginalized communities, or belonging to a group underrepresented in the legal profession is particularly encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cases, including completing forms, gathering documents, and preparing filings.
• Meet with clients and respondents.
• Prepare applications and motions for filing with the court.
• Assist in person at the Chicago Immigration Court Helpdesk.
• Attend court observations with a Project attorney if scheduled.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed