About the role#
ArchCity Defenders is a legal advocacy organization focused on ending the criminalization of poverty and state violence. The Housing & Civil Advocacy team provides representation to tenants and people experiencing homelessness in St. Louis. This internship offers experience in Missouri state courts and provides the opportunity to work within an interdisciplinary team to support our organizational mission.
What you'll do#
- Perform fact and legal research to support case development.
- Draft memos that synthesize your findings.
- Prepare motions, pleadings, and other legal documents.
- Assist with discovery and investigation tasks.
- Interview and communicate with clients.
- Attend court proceedings alongside staff attorneys.
- Coordinate with staff to support the broader work of the organization.
What you'll need#
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in legal research and writing.
- A detail-oriented approach and the ability to work well in a team.
- High capacity for problem-solving and self-direction.
- Ability to work independently under time constraints.
- Flexibility to respond to the changing needs of the office.
- A commitment to racial and economic justice and systems change.
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity toward diverse populations.
- An understanding of structures of power, privilege, and oppression.
Location & details#
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Modality: On-site in St. Louis, Missouri.
- Status: Part-time, paid internship.
About ArchCity Defenders
ArchCity Defenders is a legal advocacy organization based in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 2009, the group provides civil and criminal legal representation alongside social services. It focuses on addressing the criminalization of poverty and state violence in communities of color. The organization employs a holistic model that integrates legal work with policy and media advocacy.
How to get in at ArchCity Defenders
Applying to ArchCity Defenders requires a clear understanding of their focus on civil rights and systemic advocacy. Because roles in public interest law are competitive, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a position is published so you can apply among the first. Getting your application in early ensures your materials are reviewed before the volume of candidates grows too large. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind these roles to reach out directly. Asking a thoughtful question about the organization or requesting a referral often improves your response rate compared to submitting a cold application through a general queue.
