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Civil Rights Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Counsel/Senior Counsel

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$157K - $213K/yr

... to civil rights and liberties, abuses of power, and the erosion of government transparency. We ... As assigned, on a rotating basis, manage AO's legal intern program, including hiring, supervision ...

Counsel/Senior Counsel

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$158K - $214K/yr

... to civil rights and liberties, abuses of power, and the erosion of government transparency. We ... As assigned, on a rotating basis, manage AO's legal intern program, including hiring, supervision ...

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Civil Rights Intern information

What does a Civil Rights Intern do?

A Civil Rights Intern typically assists attorneys and advocates in researching legal issues, preparing case materials, and supporting investigations related to civil rights violations. Their tasks may include reviewing documents, conducting outreach, summarizing depositions, and helping organize events or educational programs. Interns gain exposure to laws and policies aimed at preventing discrimination and protecting individual rights, while also learning about the workings of organizations dedicated to civil rights. The role provides valuable experience for those interested in legal careers or social justice advocacy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Rights Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Rights Intern, you typically need a background in political science, law, or related fields, strong research and writing abilities, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, is often required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and cultural sensitivity are important soft skills for this position. These skills enable interns to effectively support legal teams, advocate for civil rights issues, and contribute meaningfully to casework and policy initiatives.

What is the difference between Civil Rights Intern vs Civil Rights Advocate?

AspectCivil Rights InternCivil Rights Advocate
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in law, social sciences, or related fieldsUsually experienced professionals with relevant education or background
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in nonprofit, government, or legal organizationsFull-time or part-time roles in advocacy groups, legal firms, or NGOs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, government agencies, nonprofitsAdvocacy organizations, legal firms, community groups
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles and internships in civil rightsLearning about professional roles in civil rights advocacy

The main difference is that a Civil Rights Intern is an entry-level position, often held by students or recent graduates gaining experience, while a Civil Rights Advocate is a more experienced professional actively working to promote and defend civil rights through legal, policy, or community work.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a Civil Rights Intern?

As a Civil Rights Intern, you will typically assist with research, case preparation, and drafting legal documents related to civil rights issues such as discrimination, housing, or voting rights. You may also have opportunities to attend court hearings, client interviews, and team meetings, providing valuable exposure to real cases and legal strategies. Collaboration with attorneys, paralegals, and other interns is common, and you'll often work on both individual assignments and group projects. This role is a great way to develop strong legal research and writing skills while gaining insight into the daily operations of a civil rights law practice.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Rights jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Civil Rights jobs in Washington are:

DC Area Civil Rights Legal Internship

Washington Lawyers' Committee

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Temporary

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About Washington Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs
The Washington Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs (WLC) works to create legal, economic, and social equity through litigation, client and public education, and public policy advocacy with a primary focus on racial justice. For the last 55 years, the Committee has been on the cutting edge of civil rights advocacy in the region bringing precedent setting litigation to address discrimination. Our work focuses on injustices in housing, employment, the criminal legal system, education, public accommodations, and the civil rights of immigrants. We partner with individuals and communities facing discrimination and with the legal community to achieve justice. The Committee's staff is unionized with the National Organization of Legal Service Workers Local #2320, UAW.For more information on the Washington Lawyers' Committee, please go to www.washlaw.org.
About the role
The Washington Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs civil rights internships provides law students with hands-on experience in civil rights litigation and advocacy. Each year, law students from around the country spend a quarter, semester, or summer at the Committee completing a variety of assignments under the supervision of experienced staff.
Responsibilities
Depending on the needs of our cases and clients at a given time, law student interns should expect to do work in one or more of the following areas:
  • Creating equal opportunity to economic stability for individuals and families
  • Challenging the conditions that force racial and economic segregation and that limit options for safe, decent and affordable housing based on race and national origin
  • Reducing barriers to public services and public accommodations
  • Creating equal opportunity for an education
  • Advocating on behalf of DC prisoners and reducing the impact of an unfair criminal system

Work assignments will typically involve factual and legal research, drafting memos or pleadings, and other work supporting our litigation and advocacy agenda, as well as participating in case/issue area check-ins and strategy sessions. Full semester and part-time (15 hours/week minimum) internships are available. Our legal internships include a combination of in-person and remote work. During the fall or spring, this internship will not be paid and the intern will need to be able to receive school credit. If WLC is not able to provide stipends for summer interns, candidates must be able to receive school credit or secure external funding to participate in the Civil Rights Legal Internship.
Qualifications
We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2026. We accept and review applications on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled. We encourage you to apply as early as possible. All applications are reviewed, and interns are selected, on a rolling basis.
Applications must include the following:
  • Cover letter explaining your interest in the internship, your experience with/commitment to social justice, and your anticipated dates of availability
  • Current resume