Fall 2026 Democracy, Speech & Technology Externship

About the role#

The ACLU of Northern California Legal Advocacy Department offers an externship focused on Democracy, Speech & Technology. This program supports litigation and policy work aimed at safeguarding free speech, privacy, and open government in the digital age. Externs work closely with attorneys to assist in project-based advocacy and legal strategies.

What you'll do#

• Conduct legal and policy research and analysis.
• Help author reports, advocacy materials, court documents, and pre-litigation demand letters.
• Assist with legislative and local campaigns.
• Participate in public hearings, meetings with policy-makers, and departmental strategy discussions.
• Observe appellate arguments, trial court proceedings, and depositions when available.

What you'll need#

• Current enrollment in a law school or a graduate program in Computer Science, Political Science, Journalism, Public Health, or a related field.
• A demonstrated commitment to social justice and the ideals of the ACLU.
• Strong research, writing, and oral communication skills.
• Enthusiasm, creativity, and high attention to detail.
• A strong interest in the intersection of civil liberties, free speech, technology, and privacy.

Location & details#

• Term: Fall 2026.
• Location: Remote, hybrid, or in-person at offices in San Francisco, Sacramento, or Fresno.
• Commitment: Full-time or part-time (minimum 16 hours per week). Students on the semester system must commit to 12–14 weeks.
• Requirements: Interns must earn academic credit for their participation.
• Compensation: This is a paid externship.