Currently Seeking Summer Law Clerks and Undergraduate Interns

The ABA Commission on Immigration is seeking talented law clerks and interns to assist in cutting-edge, individualized assistance to detainees held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  The ABA is the only organization in the country that accepts calls from all 250 detention facilities across the nation with a goal of ensuring that immigration laws respect the due process rights of immigrants, benefit adult and children immigrants and refugees detained by the ICE, and promote pro bono practices across the country.  Duties of interns consist of communicating with immigration detainees in ICE custody in detention centers, determining what information may assist them, and assembling the appropriate materials.  Interns are trained in identifying specific complaints regarding the condition of detention centers and they assist in drafting complaint letters that are forwarded to the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, the Office of the Inspector General, and the appropriate ICE Field Office Director.  In addition, interns develop new material addressing hot topic immigration issues.  Through their work, interns hone their legal research, writing and advocacy knowledge and skills, and gain in-depth experience in immigration policy work. Clerkships and internships provide exceptional experience for developing a career in the field of immigration or human rights.  Our office has a collegial and supportive atmosphere.  The Commission’s staff makes it a priority to continue the mentoring of interns after the completion of their internships. 

This internship is unpaid. However, students may qualify for academic credit.  

This description is specifically for our Washington, DC office.  If you would like to volunteer with one of our three pro bono projects, please contact them directly.

Qualifications

Law students and undergraduate interns must show a demonstrated commitment to public interest law and interest in immigration and refugee issues. Interns must demonstrate respect and compassion for individuals from diverse backgrounds.  Proficiency in Spanish or other foreign languages is helpful, but not required. 

Spring and fall semester applicants must be available at least two full days a week.  Summer applicants must be available five days a week. All internships are a minimum of ten weeks long.

There is no deadline to apply.  Applications are accepted until positions are filled.

To Apply

Please submit all of the following to immcenter@americanbar.org:

• Cover letter (please include availability)
• Resume
• Writing sample (any length)
• List of three references

For more information, please contact Karen Castillo at
(202) 662-1005 or immcenter@americanbar.org.