About FIRE:

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s mission is to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE educates Americans about the importance of these inalienable rights, promotes a culture of respect for these rights, and provides the means to preserve them.

Position Description:

FIRE is searching for a current law student to join our Public Advocacy department next summer as our Hugh and Hazel Darling Foundation Legal Intern. FIRE’s Public Advocacy department engages in non-litigation advocacy on off-campus free speech issues. This is a paid opportunity offering a $7,000 stipend for a 10-week program that runs from June through August in our Philadelphia office. The Legal Intern will:

• Assist with investigating off-campus free expression matters or issues of interest to the department, including collection and review of documentation;
• Assist with research projects to identify potential advocacy targets;
• Conduct legal research in support of the department’s advocacy efforts;
• Draft and/or review letters defending First Amendment rights;
• Attend and take notes on virtual webinars and meetings concerning free speech issues;
• Have the opportunity to contribute to FIRE’s Newsdesk;
• Participate in seminars with FIRE’s leadership and other experts on civil liberties.

As the Darling Foundation Intern, this individual will have the opportunity to work with FIRE’s Public Advocacy team, Communications team, and Engagement and Mobilization team to help advance FIRE’s mission to defend freedom of speech, expression, and thought.

Desired Skills:

To qualify for FIRE’s Legal Internship, candidates must be rising 2Ls or rising 3Ls at an ABA-accredited California law school and have excellent academic credentials, a passion for FIRE’s mission, and an ability to articulate that passion in a way that makes others enthusiastic about our cause. A successful candidate will be highly organized, communicate effectively, possess exceptional research and writing skills, and have a strong work ethic.

Applications:

Applicants should provide a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample or other demonstration of work. All applications are confidential. Please address applications to Cait Scanlan, Director of People Operations. Applications will be received on a rolling basis.

FIRE is an equal opportunity employer. FIRE is grateful to the Hugh and Hazel Darling Foundation for making this position possible, as part of its commitment to advancing legal education in California.