Legal Internship Summer 2026

Position Summary:

Democracy Forward is accepting applications from first and second year law students for paid, full-time summer internships to carry out its mission to use the law to build collective power and advance a bold, vibrant democracy for all people via litigation and regulatory engagement. 

Democracy Forward’s office is based in Washington, DC. Interns are expected to be in the office an average of 2-3 days per week. The internship program is anticipated to run from May 26, 2026 - July 31, 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist Democracy Forward lawyers in their work representing clients in proceedings in federal and state courts and before federal and state agencies, including helping lawyers develop strategy and identify risks and opportunities.
• Perform legal research and draft legal documents, including substantive briefs for parties and amici, motions, comments, and/or other court or regulatory filings.
• Assist Democracy Forward lawyers in preparing for arguments, hearings, and/or other court appearances.
• Monitor and screen cases and participate in discussions where Democracy Forward considers engaging in litigation (either affirmative litigation or as an amicus or intervenor) or regulatory advocacy).  
• Contribute to strategic discussions regarding Democracy Forward’s work and matters.
• Participate in meetings with clients, which may include nonprofit organizations, unions, local government entities, and other entities.

Qualifications:

We recognize that strong candidates may not meet 100% of the qualifications listed. If you believe you can contribute meaningfully to our team, we encourage you to apply.

• First or second year law student
• Demonstrated commitment to democracy and social progress. 
• Excellent attention to detail. 
• Able to manage and prioritize multiple projects and drive forward work under tight deadlines.
• Well-developed collaborative and interpersonal skills including demonstrated self-awareness, commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Experience or eagerness to work in a nonprofit, mission-driven, or advocacy organization.

The salary for summer legal interns is $5,000 per month. Applications for full-time summer internships will be considered on a rolling basis, consistent with NALP guidelines.

Democracy Forward is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals. We strongly encourage people of color; lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people; women; people with disabilities; and veterans to apply. Please note that all lawyer positions require a law degree and active membership in the bar of a state or the District of Columbia. 

Not sure you meet all of our qualifications? Research shows that men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria. Yet women and other people who are systematically marginalized tend to only apply if they meet every requirement.  If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. Whether you are new to mission-based legal and policy work, returning to work after a gap in employment, or simply looking to transition or take the next step in your career path, we welcome the opportunity to have you on our radar.  Please include in your cover letter the nature of your interest in legal and policy work promoting democracy and progress and what you hope to bring to our team and the role for which you are applying.