Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Human Rights First is seeking motivated legal interns for the Summer 2026 semester to assist in providing pro bono legal representation to asylum seekers. Interns will engage in client interviewing, document drafting, and collaborate with attorneys on case strategy to further the mission of promoting respect for human rights and the rule of law.
Responsibilities
• Interns will have the opportunity to engage in client interviewing, to conduct intake interviews with potential clients, and to draft case summaries
• Interns will work with Human Rights First staff on asylum cases, providing support with draft declarations, briefs, legal memorandum, and other legal advocacy efforts
• Interns will assist with preparing and filing forms for affirmative immigration relief with Human Rights First clients, including asylum applications, family reunification petitions, employment authorization applications, temporary protected status, and applications for permanent residency
• Interns will conduct legal research in developing areas of immigration law and country conditions for analysis and reporting
• Interns will have opportunities to attend legal trainings, advocacy groups, and discussion panels in the greater Los Angeles area and virtually
Skills
• Enrollment in an accredited JD or LLM program
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines at once
• Legal research and writing skills, particularly in immigration law, federal circuit law, agency decisions, and federal regulations
• Dedicated interest and passion for immigration advocacy and protecting the rights of migrants
• Experience working with vulnerable populations and survivors of trauma
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, clients, and community organizations
• Motivated to work independently to manage multiple tasks on important deadlines
• A computer and internet connection are required for this position
• Fluency in a second language, particularly Spanish, French, or Russian, is a plus
Company Overview
• Human Rights First is a non-profit organisation that works to promote and protect fundamental international human rights. It was founded in 1978, and is headquartered in New York, New York, USA, with a workforce of 51-200 employees. Its website is http://www.humanrightsfirst.org.