About the role#
The Speech, Privacy and Technology Project works to protect First Amendment freedoms of expression and inquiry. We expand individual privacy rights and ensure that advances in technology do not compromise civil liberties. Our team manages litigation and advocacy on issues like political protest, online expression, electronic privacy, and the impact of algorithmic decision-making.
What you'll do#
Interns work alongside our team to support all aspects of litigation. You will:
- Conduct legal research and analysis for new and active projects.
- Draft legal memoranda, pleadings, affidavits, motions, and briefs.
- Edit public education and advocacy materials.
- Assist ACLU affiliates and cooperating attorneys.
What you'll need#
This role is open to students currently enrolled in law school who have completed their first year, or those currently in an LLM program. You should have:
- Strong research skills, including experience with legal databases.
- Clear verbal and written communication.
- High attention to detail with effective time-management skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Initiative to see projects through to completion.
- A commitment to public interest law, civil liberties, and racial justice.
- Ability to conduct complex legal analysis and fact finding.
- An interest in free speech, privacy, and technology is preferred.
Location & details#
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Duration: 10 consecutive weeks, starting May 24 or June 7.
- Location: Remote or hybrid based in New York City. Applicants must be based in the U.S. for the duration of the internship.
- Commitment: Full-time (35 hours per week).
- Compensation: $24 per hour. Students with outside funding may be eligible for a partial stipend.
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.



