About the role#
The Roderick and Solange MacArthur Justice Center is seeking law students for a summer internship. You will work on civil rights litigation and advocacy to support people harmed by the criminal legal system. This role involves direct participation in legal strategy, research, and client advocacy.
What you'll do#
- Draft legal briefs, memoranda, and discovery documents.
- Conduct legal research and analyze case facts and records.
- Assist with expert discovery and prepare for depositions.
- Attend court hearings and participate in moot oral arguments.
- Work directly with clients, organizations, and community partners.
- Contribute to strategy discussions and client meetings.
- Support ongoing appellate cases through research and drafting.
- Conduct community outreach initiatives.
What you'll need#
- Current 1L or 2L JD student in good standing.
- Commitment to transformational justice and achieving results for those harmed by the criminal legal system.
- Cultural competence to work effectively with diverse clients, co-workers, and community partners.
Location & details#
- Locations: Chicago, Illinois; New Orleans, Louisiana; Washington, District of Columbia.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: Hybrid. You must reside within commuting distance and work in the office 2-3 days per week.
- Commitment: Full-time for 8 to 10 weeks.
- Compensation: This is a paid internship. If you do not receive external funding, the organization provides a stipend of up to $1,000 per week.
About MacArthur Foundation
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago. Founded in 1978, it supports institutions and individuals working on social challenges like climate change and nuclear risk. The foundation also funds journalism and local projects in its home city. It employs between 51 and 200 people.
How to get in at MacArthur Foundation
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