Undergraduate Internship, Detained Adult Program - Direct Representation

Amica Center for Immigrant Rights (Amica Center)•Washington, DC

1h•Remote

About The Position

The Amica Center for Immigrant Rights is seeking undergraduate students to intern with its Detained Adult Program (DAP), which provides information, support, and legal representation to adults detained by ICE in Maryland and Virginia. The program offers trauma-sensitive, client-centered services that respect clients’ autonomy. Interns provide administrative and programmatic support and gain exposure to immigration law and current immigration issues. The Spring 2027 internship is remote and requires a commitment of 15–20 hours per week for 10 weeks, beginning on or about January 19, 2027. In-person work is not required. Interns may have the opportunity to appear in or observe court in person, and to participate in occasional in-office work, meetings, and events. Internships are unpaid. The organization can assist students seeking internship credit, and a limited number of small scholarship stipends are available through a separate application. Applicants should apply to only one Amica Center department. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; interviews and offers may occur before the November 30, 2027 deadline.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program.
Able to commit 15–20 hours per week for 10 weeks.
Spanish fluency.
Strong interest in human rights, social justice, and immigration-rights issues.
Excellent research and writing skills.
Willingness to complete administrative work.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Access to a laptop or computer, reliable internet, and a phone; Amica Center may be able to provide temporary laptop access as needed.

Nice To Haves

Ability to relate to and work with low-income clients who have histories of trauma and/or previous interactions with the criminal justice system.
Interest in or willingness to participate in optional in-person court appearances or observation, office work, meetings, and events.

Responsibilities

Conduct individualized country-conditions research for asylum and other protection-based cases.
Assist with preparing applications for immigration relief and other case-related forms, such as FOIA requests.
Assist with interpretation and translation.
Assist with the hotline for detained adults.
Obtain criminal and medical records and collect other evidence in support of clients’ cases.
Communicate with clients and their family members by telephone.
Complete administrative and programmatic support work for Detained Adult Program staff.