About the role#
The National Security Project seeks a full-time fellow for a two-year position starting in Fall 2027. This role is based in the New York office and focuses on impact litigation and advocacy to challenge harms caused by government policies in the name of national security. You will report to the Project Director and Deputy Project Director. This is a unionized position represented by ACLU Staff United.
What you'll do#
- Conduct legal research, fact development, and analysis to support new litigation projects.
- Draft legal memoranda, pleadings, declarations, motions, and briefs.
- Interview and work directly with potential witnesses and clients.
- Participate in discovery and trial practice as opportunities arise.
- Coordinate the summer internship program and provide guidance to student interns.
- Draft and edit public education materials and provide support to ACLU affiliates.
What you'll need#
- A J.D. degree from a U.S. law school, to be completed by Spring 2027.
- Excellent research, writing, and verbal communication skills.
- A demonstrated commitment to public interest law and civil rights.
- Experience working with marginalized communities impacted by discriminatory or abusive national security policies.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Location & details#
- This position is located in New York, New York.
- The role is hybrid, requiring an in-office presence of two days per week or eight days per month.
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
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