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Form of workLegal InternSpring 2024– Refugee Representation
The Refugee Representation intern will assist the team by providing general support. We are looking for currently enrolled law school student who have a strong interest in and commitment to human rights, an interest in immigration law (particularly asylum,) are fluent in a relevant second language (Spanish, French, Arabic, Mandarin and Russian, among others), want to work on behalf of asylum-seekers, and possess excellent organizational and communication skills.
The Refugee Representation program works to provide indigent asylum seekers with quality legal representation in their asylum cases. The program also advocates for legal reform and policy change on issues affecting asylum seekers in the United States.
Interns will assist staff members in conducting screenings, intake interviews, intake write-ups, legal research, drafting supporting affidavits and declarations for clients and potential asylum clients.
DUTIES
- Assist staff members in conducting screenings and intake interviews with potential asylum clients and drafting detailed interview-based reports with extensive country conditions documentation and legal analysis;
- Assist Human Rights First attorneys in drafting affidavits, briefs, and other legal documents for asylum seekers;
- Complete immigration forms for Human Rights First’s direct representation clients, including family reunification petitions and green card applications when needed;
- Provide interpretation services on an occasional basis if fully fluent in a relevant second language.
REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
• Fluency in a second language (preference will be given to Spanish, French, Arabic, Mandarin and Russian speakers);
• Excellent writing and editing skills;
• Excellent research skills;
• Strong attention to detail;
• As the program deals daily with indigent asylum seekers who are often survivors of torture, it is important that the intern be comfortable speaking and listening during times of emotional crises;
• Background in human rights;
• Initiative and enthusiasm.
REQUIRED EDUCATION
Applicants MUST be law students who are currently enrolled in an accredite law school
COMPENSATION: Unpaid
TIME COMMITMENT: 15-30 hours weekly
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS: Resume, Writing Sample and Cover Letter
START DATE: January 22, 2024
APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 1, 2023
Human Rights First is committed to recruiting, retaining, and developing staff from a diversity of backgrounds, including members of racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, people of all socioeconomic backgrounds, people of all nationalities, and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. We believe that a diverse staff and an inclusive work environment that welcomes a range of perspectives make us stronger and more effective.
