About the role#
The Capital Punishment Project at the ACLU works to challenge the unfairness of the death penalty. We engage in strategic litigation and public advocacy to pursue the abolition of capital punishment. This internship is offered for course credit only and must be tied to your formal education program.
What you'll do#
- Conduct legal and policy research.
- Draft memoranda, affidavits, and briefs.
- Perform fact investigations.
- Research prospects for new litigation, including both factual and legal claims.
- Research and draft materials for public education.
- Support the team during court cases, including depositions, oral arguments, hearings, and trials.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in law school, having completed your first year before the internship starts.
- A demonstrated interest in the abolition of the death penalty.
- A commitment to civil rights.
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team.
- Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word and Excel).
- Initiative to see projects through to completion.
Location & details#
- This is a part-time internship requiring 10-12 hours per week for 12 consecutive weeks.
- The role is available as a remote or hybrid position based in Durham, North Carolina, or New York, New York.
- The internship term is Winter 2027, with start dates on January 11 or January 25.
- This position is unpaid and for course credit only.
About ACLU
The ACLU is a non-profit organization focused on the defense of civil rights and liberties. Founded in 1920, the group operates out of New York and Washington. It works on issues including voting rights, criminal justice reform, and freedom of speech. The organization employs over 1,200 people.
How to get in at ACLU
Securing an internship at the ACLU requires timing and persistence. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first, as early applicants get seen before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the frustration of submitting applications into a void. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves response rates. Connecting with a human recruiter often provides more clarity than a standard application portal.
