About the role#
The ACLU Voting Rights Project seeks a legal intern for the Summer 2027 term. This project focuses on building and defending an accessible, inclusive, and equitable democracy. Since 1965, the team has litigated over 400 cases to protect voting rights, challenge discriminatory legislation, and ensure fair representation. Interns support this mission by contributing to active litigation, legislative advocacy, and public education efforts.
What you'll do#
Interns assist the team with litigation and advocacy tasks. Your work will include:
- Conducting legal research and analysis for new and active projects.
- Drafting legal memoranda, pleadings, affidavits, motions, and briefs.
- Editing public education and non-litigation advocacy materials.
- Supporting ACLU affiliates and cooperating attorneys.
- Engaging with clients, participating in community outreach, and assisting with discovery and trial practice.
What you'll need#
This role is open to law students who have completed their 1L year or are currently in an LLM program. You must be based in the U.S. for the duration of the internship.
- Excellent research, communication, and time-management skills.
- Strong attention to detail and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, civil liberties, and racial justice.
- Ability to conduct complex legal analysis and fact finding.
- Initiative to see projects through to completion.
- Preference is given to candidates with an interest in or previous experience with voting rights issues.
Location & details#
- Locations: New York City, NY or Washington D.C.
- Modality: Remote or hybrid options available.
- Duration: Full-time (35 hours per week) for 10 consecutive weeks.
- Compensation: Paid at a rate of $24 per hour.
- Eligibility: Must be a currently matriculated law student.
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.
