Fall 2026 Legal Intern, Litigation Department

About the role#

The ACLU is seeking a Legal Intern for the Litigation Department for the Fall 2026 term. This role supports the National Legal Director and staff attorneys in overseeing work before the United States Supreme Court, including merits cases, petitions for certiorari, and amicus work. Interns will gain exposure to advocacy strategy development and coalition management across issue areas such as voting rights, LGBTQ rights, immigration, presidential power, and free speech.

What you'll do#

• Conduct legal research and analysis to support new and active litigation projects.
• Assist in drafting legal memoranda, motions, and briefs.
• Provide support and assistance to ACLU affiliates and cooperating attorneys.
• Contribute to long-term planning and strategy projects related to the Supreme Court docket.

What you'll need#

• Current enrollment in law school with completion of 1L year by summer 2026; preference for candidates who have completed their 2L year.
• Excellent research skills, including proficiency with internet and legal databases.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail with excellent organization and time-management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, civil liberties, and racial justice.
• Ability to conduct complex legal analysis.

Location & details#

• Locations: This position is available as a remote or hybrid role based in New York City, NY, or San Francisco, CA.
• Term: Fall 2026 (12 consecutive weeks).
• Schedule: Part-time (10, 15, or 20 hours per week).
• Compensation: This is an unpaid internship for course credit only; it must be tied to the intern’s formal education program.