Fall 2026 Legal Intern, Abortion Criminal Defense Initiative

About the role#

The Abortion Criminal Defense Initiative (ACDI) supports a network of defenders representing individuals facing abortion-related criminal investigations and prosecutions. This internship provides an opportunity to support defensive and affirmative advocacy related to the criminalization of reproductive healthcare. Interns work alongside attorneys to provide legal, strategic, and logistical assistance to local counsel and collaborate with ACLU partners on litigation and policy advocacy.

What you'll do#

• Conduct legal research and writing, including drafting memoranda, portions of briefs, motions, and training resources.
• Track cases and issues of interest to the ACDI.
• Assist with performing intakes for individuals in need of criminal defense representation.
• Participate in weekly team meetings and engage with coalition partners.
• Center principles of equity, inclusion, and belonging in all program development and organizational processes.

What you'll need#

• Current enrollment at an ABA-accredited law school with at least one year of law school completed.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and complex analysis skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and see projects through to completion.
• A demonstrated commitment to criminal defense, public interest law, civil rights, and social justice.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respond well to feedback.

Location & details#

• Location: Remote or hybrid based in New York City or Washington D.C.
• Term: Fall 2026 (12 weeks).
• Commitment: Part-time (10, 15, or 20 hours per week).
• Compensation: This is an unpaid internship for course credit only. It must be tied to a formal education program via integrated coursework or academic credit.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be based in the U.S. for the duration of the internship.