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Role Description

The Los Angeles office of Human Rights First seeks motivated non-legal interns for the Summer 2026 semester to assist in providing general support. This position is unpaid and will support the Los Angeles area and may be performed remotely. A computer and internet connection are required for this position. Interns will attain professional experience in legal analysis and engage with a diverse range of clients. People of color, women, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBT+ community are encouraged to apply.

Non-legal interns meaningfully contribute to the Refugee Representation program, which provides legal assistance to asylum seekers who cannot afford an attorney and need help with a claim for asylum or other humanitarian-based forms of immigration relief. Interns actively engage in furthering Human Rights First mission of working in the United States to promote respect for human rights and the rule of law. Non-Legal interns provide important assistance to attorneys and clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist staff members in meeting with clients.
• Conduct screening and intake interviews with potential clients.
• Draft case summaries.
• Draft and edit documents including declarations and other legal advocacy for asylum seekers.
• Update and maintain databases.
• Monitor news and complete country condition research for analysis and reporting.
• Interpretation may be involved if the intern speaks a relevant second language fluently.
• Assist with preparing and filing forms for clients, including asylum applications, family reunification petitions, and applications for permanent residency.
• Attend legal trainings, advocacy groups, and discussion panels.
• Research and maintain lists for social services referrals.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines at once.
• Excellent computer and online research skills, including familiarity with word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• 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/remotely.
• Initiative and enthusiasm.
• Spanish fluency (reading and writing) required; fluency in other languages is also a plus.

Requirements

• Undergraduate, graduate, and/or recent graduate.

Compensation

• Unpaid

Submission Deadline

• March 20, 2026

Start Date

• May 26, 2026

End Date

• August 14, 2026

Time Commitment

• 29 hours/week

Application Instructions

• Cover Letter, Resume, Writing Sample, all in PDF.