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Civil Rights Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

American Oversight

Counsel/Senior Counsel

Washington, DC · 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:
Civil Rights Intern jobs near you
Counsel/Senior Counsel

Counsel/Senior Counsel

American Oversight

Washington, DC • On-site

$158K - $214K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

WHO WE ARE
American Oversight (AO) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit watchdog that advances truth, accountability, and democracy by enforcing the public's right to government records. We use multiple tools, backed by aggressive litigation, to fight attacks on democratic institutions, threats to civil rights and liberties, abuses of power, and the erosion of government transparency. We expose and disrupt these attacks - and the officials and networks behind them - by forcing the government to turn over records officials would rather keep secret.
Since our founding in 2017, American Oversight has worked on issues that touch nearly every aspect of American life. Our team has:
  • Secured a court order to preserve records in the 2025 "Signalgate" scandal, and spurred a related investigation by the Department of Defense inspector general that found Secretary Pete Hegseth had put troops' lives in danger and violated federal recordkeeping laws
  • Forced DOGE to implement a records preservation policy to ensure long-term accountability for its chaotic actions
  • Revealed the Trump-sanctioned pressure campaign on the Ukrainian government by forcing the Trump administration to turn over records initially withheld from Congress
  • Unmasked sham "audits" of the 2020 election in Wisconsin and Arizona, which used taxpayer money to undermine state elections
  • Exposed the Trump administration's unprecedented use of personal data to target immigrant communities and remove people from state voter rolls

We are committed to fighting threats to democracy at the federal, state, and local levels, using time-tested and innovative tools to expose misconduct, defend against attacks on marginalized communities, and demand accountability.
For more information, please visit our website: www.americanoversight.org
JOB OVERVIEW
American Oversight seeks a Counsel or Senior Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing government accountability and transparency. This role focuses on high-impact, records-based and other transparency-driven litigation and legal strategies to expose corruption, challenge abuses of power, and hold those who threaten democratic institutions to account.
Level will be determined based on experience, with expectations scaling in independence, leadership, and strategic ownership.
RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)
  • Litigate high-impact transparency and government accountability cases in federal and state courts, including matters under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), state open records acts, state and federal open meetings laws, open courts doctrines, and other relevant authorities.
  • Serve as lead or supporting counsel across a diverse docket of federal and state cases, shaping litigation strategy and managing day-to-day case execution.
  • Draft pleadings at the trial and appellate levels, including complaints, motions, briefs, and amicus filings.
  • Conduct discovery where permitted, including written discovery, depositions, and evidentiary hearings.
  • Present oral arguments in federal and state courts, including appellate courts.
  • Develop and advance a strategic litigation docket, including identifying and pursuing new cases and innovative advocacy approaches.
  • Oversee and partner with local counsel nationwide on state-based litigation.
  • Develop and maintain expertise in FOIA and state open records laws.
  • Partner with American Oversight's investigations team to design records-driven strategies and shape public records requests to maximize strong legal leverage and evidentiary value.
  • Negotiate with federal, state, and local agencies to advance pending records requests and drive timely compliance through follow-up and escalation.
  • Draft non-judicial advocacy materials including demand letters, administrative complaints, and other tools for demanding accountability.
  • Collaborate with American Oversight's communications and investigations teams to translate legal findings into clear, compelling public-facing materials, including reports, blog posts, and other advocacy content.
  • Represent American Oversight in meetings with partners, coalitions, and external stakeholders, consistent with 501(c)(3) requirements.
  • As assigned, on a rotating basis, manage AO's legal intern program, including hiring, supervision, and enrichment opportunities.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Counsel
  • J.D. and admission to practice in at least one state (D.C. eligibility required).
  • 4+ years of litigation experience (civil or criminal), including drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
  • Excellent legal analytical, research, and writing skills.
  • Demonstrated interest in government accountability and public interest advocacy.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, operate with increasing independence, and exercise sound judgment.
  • Experience working in and/or desire to contribute to workplaces with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Senior Counsel
  • J.D. and admission to practice in at least one state (D.C. eligibility required).
  • 10+ years experience, including significant experience leading civil litigation in federal and/or state courts, with primary responsibility for discovery, motions practice, dispositive briefing, and court appearances. Demonstrated knowledge of FOIA and state open records law, state open meetings laws and/or other transparency laws preferred.
  • Internal candidates may be considered with fewer years of experience.
  • Excellent legal analytical, research, and writing skills.
  • Demonstrated interest in government accountability and public interest advocacy.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently manage a litigation docket and lead complex cases.
  • Strong track record in litigation strategy, persuasive writing, oral advocacy, and decision-making.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities independently, exercising strong judgment.
  • Experience working in and/or desire to contribute to workplaces with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience mentoring and/or supervising junior attorneys, student interns, or postgraduate fellows.
  • Familiarity with pro-democracy issues, including but not limited to voting rights, election administration, civil rights and civil liberties, or threats like abuse of power, corruption, or undue influence.
  • Experience with the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), state open records laws, or government ethics laws.

We encourage individuals to apply even if they do not have any of the desired qualifications.
COMPENSATION
The salary range for this position is $118,000-$170,000, based on post-J.D. experience, qualifications, and internal leveling.
BENEFITS
  • Remote-first work environment
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • Paid office closure from Christmas Eve to New Years' Day
  • 403(b) with up to 4% employer match
  • Flexible scheduling policy aligned with core business hours
  • Summer Fridays
  • Up to $100/month reimbursement for internet services and personal device
  • Professional development stipend
  • $400/yr home office stipend
  • Commuter benefits

LOCATION
This position is based in the United States, with a preference for candidates in the Washington, DC area (remote will be considered). Must be available to work East Coast business hours, with evening and weekend work as needed.
TIMELINE
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by Friday, May 15 to ensure priority consideration of your application. Following May 15, we will continue to review applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
OUR COMMITMENT TO AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE
At American Oversight, we value and strive to hire, develop, and grow a diverse and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunity employer, and encourage applications from all individuals without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. We strongly encourage individuals to apply for opportunities at American Oversight even if they do not have any of the desired qualifications.

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