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    About

    Detention and LOP Information Line Internship

    "I am only one, But still I am one. I cannot do everything, But still I can do something; And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." - Edward Everett Hale

    The ABA Commission on Immigration is seeking talented law students and undergraduate students interested in joining the Association’s efforts to ensure fair treatment and full due process rights for immigrants, asylum-seekers, and refugees within the U.S.

    About Us

    The ABA Commission on Immigration’s Detention & Legal Orientation Program (LOP) Information Line provides legal information on immigration matters to callers in ICE custody throughout the nation. Our goal is to ensure that the due process rights of immigrants are respected. We aim to provide vital information and support to immigrants and refugees detained by ICE and promote pro bono practices across the country. People in ICE custody are facing barriers in countless ways including limited access to information and lawyers, limited access to their family and friends, limited access to financial support, language barriers, and overall dehumanizing conditions. The Information Line aims to orient callers about the immigration process and their rights by providing information to callers in their native language by phone and by mail and directing them toward potential legal help in their location.

    Duties

    The Detention & LOP Information Line operates from 9:00 am through 5:00 pm Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Interns will interact directly with people in detention conducting remote individual orientations (IOs) via telephone wherein they provide callers general legal information, refer callers to local LOP providers, and refer callers to local pro bono organizations for case assistance and placement. Interns will also assist in mailing pro se materials to callers, as requested. Interns will be trained on a wide variety of immigration law topics, and a trauma-informed approach to cross-cultural interactions. Interns can also work independently on immigration-related projects, presentations, and/or writing samples to further their research and presentation skills. Interns should show a demonstrated interest in the issues facing immigrants and refugees. Interns must demonstrate respect and compassion for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Spanish fluency is preferred, as are other foreign language skills.

    Stipend and Commitment

    The internship is unpaid. Academic credit through a student’s institution is applicable, where available.

    Internship Hours Commitment: 20 hours per week, unless the institution’s internship program requires additional hours.

    Application Process

    Please email your resume, a brief cover letter, and your expected weekly hours of availability to Alicia M. de la O at [email protected].

    Application Deadline

    Applications are received on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

    Intern Testimonials

    “My internship at the ABA Commission on Immigration proved to be an unforgettable and fruitful experience. Through hands-on work, interning with the commission allowed me to grow professionally, academically, and personally. The position offers an unmatched experience and immersion in immigration law. I was tasked with disseminating general information to callers, providing pro se materials upon request, and helping translate documents. Every aspect of the experience made me feel impactful. The most rewarding part of the internship was the opportunity to participate in the struggle for legal accessibility. By helping detained individuals, I developed an invaluable empathetic spirit. The staff are kind, welcoming, and supportive. While this experience gave me the opportunity to work independently, the staff made sure to support me throughout the process. Every question was answered promptly. While the work was challenging, especially on an emotional level, its rewards exceeded any hardship. Thanks to its impactful work, supportive staff, and opportunities for growth, I will carry on the invaluable experience throughout the rest of my career.”   Martin Macias, 4th Year Undergraduate at University of California - Los Angeles, Spring 2024
    “Interning with the American Bar Association was truly eye opening. Although my main focus is on becoming a civil rights lawyer, the experience shed light on the importance of immigration law. The intricacies of this field became apparent, and I now see how vital it is in promoting justice and equality.”   Isabella Benetti, 4th Year Undergradaute at University of California - Santa Barbara, Spring 2024


    Read more testimonials here!