Volunteer Internship Opportunities

The Civil Rights Division offers competitive student volunteer internship positions in Washington, D.C. each academic semester, including the summer, for both law and undergraduate students. Interns gain a unique and exciting view of the work and mission of the Division.

The Division is primarily responsible for enforcing federal statutes and executive orders that prohibit, among other things, unlawful discrimination in voting, education, employment, housing, police services, public accommodations and facilities, and federally funded and conducted programs.

Interns will assist Division attorneys or specialists in legal and factual research, prepare documents and exhibits, interview witnesses, summarize depositions, analyze records, and other case-related work. Some sections may also involve interns in policy-related assignments. Given the nature of the work and the high quality of its staff, the Division expects interns to be able to grasp issues quickly, complete work thoroughly and accurately, and write clearly and concisely. These positions are without compensation or may be used for work-study credit.

Eligibility

Applicants must be U.S. citizens; dual citizens will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The following students are eligible to apply: undergraduate students who are enrolled at least half-time; first-year (second semester), second- and third-year law students; and law school graduates who are enrolled in graduate law programs (e.g., L.L.M. programs) at least half-time. All students must be in good academic standing and will be required to provide official documentation from their school. First-year, first-semester law students may apply after December 1 for internships the following summer.

How to Apply

Interested students should submit a resume, brief writing sample (no more than 5 pages), transcript (unofficial is acceptable) and a cover letter describing your specific qualifications, listing the section where you want to be considered, and providing the time period you are available to work. Applications must be e-mailed to crt.volunteervacancies@usdoj.gov or faxed to (202) 305-9667. Please include Volunteer Internship in the subject line of your communication.

Click here to learn more about the work of the individual sections in the Division, which ones are recruiting for student volunteer interns, their specific expectations and requirements, and application deadlines.

The Department of Justice is an equal opportunity/reasonable accommodation employer.