Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving legal landscape, the role of nonprofit legal assistance interns has never been more pivotal.

As societal needs grow and diversify, the demand for compassionate and competent individuals who can navigate the legal intricacies for nonprofits escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a nonprofit legal assistance intern?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this position,
• A hiring manager setting out the ideal intern profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the workings of nonprofit legal assistance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable nonprofit legal assistance intern job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Duties and Responsibilities

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns work under the supervision of experienced lawyers and staff to provide legal assistance to individuals and communities in need.

They are crucial in supporting the work of the nonprofit organization by conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and assisting in client meetings.

The following are the duties and responsibilities of a Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern:

• Conduct legal research to support ongoing cases and projects
• Assist in the preparation of legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, and contracts
• Attend client meetings and court proceedings to gain practical experience
• Help in developing legal advice and strategy for clients in need
• Support the organization in its outreach efforts, such as preparing informational materials, participating in community workshops, and assisting in fundraising activities
• Collaborate with legal staff to understand case management and legal procedures
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive client information
• Handle administrative tasks as needed, such as filing documents, scheduling appointments, and making phone calls
• Perform additional tasks as requested by supervising attorneys and staff

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern to join our organization.

The intern will assist in providing legal aid services to clients, gain hands-on experience in the field of nonprofit legal work, and contribute to the overall operations of our organization.

The intern’s responsibilities will include conducting legal research, assisting with case management, drafting legal documents, and attending client meetings under the supervision of our staff attorneys.

Our ideal candidate is a law student or recent graduate who is interested in pursuing a career in public interest law and has a passion for social justice issues.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with legal research and case preparation
• Support attorneys in managing case files and client communication
• Draft legal documents and correspondence
• Attend client meetings and court proceedings under supervision
• Help with administrative tasks as required
• Contribute to the development of legal resources and educational materials
• Maintain client confidentiality and uphold ethical standards

 

Qualifications

• Enrollment in or completion of a Juris Doctor (JD) program
• Interest in nonprofit law and public interest work
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Commitment to promoting social justice and equality

 

Benefits

• Gain hands-on legal experience in a nonprofit setting
• Opportunity to network with legal professionals in the nonprofit sector
• Work on meaningful projects that promote social justice and equality
• Potential for academic credit, depending on the requirements of your institution

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern
• Work Environment: Office setting with possible remote work options. Some local travel may be required for court visits and client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Staff Attorney or Legal Services Director.
• Stipend: This is an unpaid internship. However, a stipend or reimbursement for expenses may be available depending on the organization’s resources.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Internship
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your interest in public interest law, and a writing sample to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Do?

A Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern typically works for a nonprofit organization that provides legal aid to those who cannot afford it.

Their main responsibility is to assist the attorneys and paralegals in the organization with various tasks such as legal research, drafting legal documents, and preparing case files.

They assist in client interviews to gather information about their cases, and help maintain communication with the clients to keep them informed about their case status.

Interns may also help with administrative duties, like answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and maintaining client databases.

They are often asked to attend court proceedings, depositions, and other legal meetings to gain a practical understanding of the legal process.

This role is highly collaborative and requires the intern to work closely with the legal team.

The intern is also expected to adhere to the organization’s mission, and work with dedication and empathy towards the clients they serve.

This internship role is typically a stepping stone for those pursuing a career in law, especially in public interest law or human rights law.

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Qualifications and Skills

The Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern should possess a combination of legal knowledge, interpersonal skills, and organizational abilities, including:

• Strong legal research skills to assist in preparing legal documents and analyzing legal issues relevant to the organization
• Knowledge of legal codes, procedures, and terminology to assist in preparing case files, conducting research, and drafting legal documents
• Exceptional communication skills to interact with diverse clientele, other legal professionals, and team members
• Time management and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team environment and foster positive relationships with colleagues and clients
• Basic understanding of the nonprofit sector and its unique legal needs and challenges
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in dealing with sensitive information
• Proficiency in using legal research software and other relevant technology tools

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Experience Requirements

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns are usually law students seeking practical experience in a public interest setting.

They are not typically required to have previous legal experience, but they should be currently enrolled in an accredited law school and have completed at least one year of legal studies.

They may have previous experience from legal clinics, moot court competitions, public interest law organizations, or other law-related internships, which would be advantageous.

Strong research and writing skills are essential, which can be developed during their law school studies.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of legal principles and practices, as well as an interest in public interest law.

Interns with more than one internship experience or who have worked on significant legal projects may be trusted with more complex tasks or responsibilities.

Those who have demonstrated excellent performance in their internship might have the opportunity to take on leadership roles in future legal projects or even obtain a full-time position after graduation.

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Education and Training Requirements

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns typically are pursuing or have completed a bachelor’s degree in law, political science, nonprofit management, or a related field.

They may also be enrolled in a Juris Doctor (JD) program.

This position often serves as a stepping-stone for those interested in practicing law, particularly in the nonprofit sector.

Interns should have a solid understanding of legal terminology and processes, as well as the ethical guidelines related to law practice.

They are typically required to perform legal research, so skills in using legal research software and databases are advantageous.

Some positions may require the intern to have completed certain law school courses or have a specific focus in their legal studies, such as family law, environmental law, or human rights law.

Experience or education in nonprofit management or social work may be beneficial, as this role often involves working with vulnerable populations or addressing societal issues.

While not always required, language skills, particularly in Spanish or other languages commonly spoken by the nonprofit’s client base, can be a plus.

Finally, excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and a passion for social justice are typically highly valued in this role.

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Salary Expectations

A Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern can expect to earn an average stipend of $15 (USD) per hour.

However, compensation can vary depending on the specific nonprofit organization, geographical location, and the intern’s level of education and experience.

Some positions may also offer non-monetary benefits, such as course credits or valuable work experience.

 

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern need?

A Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern should have strong research abilities, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a keen attention to detail.

They should also be familiar with legal terminology and concepts.

Furthermore, it’s important for them to possess strong organizational and time management skills, as well as a dedication to upholding the mission and values of the nonprofit organization they are working with.

 

Do Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns need a degree?

Most Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns are in the process of obtaining a degree in law, political science, social work, or related field.

However, the requirement can vary based on the nonprofit organization.

While a degree might not be essential, having a strong understanding of the legal system, especially as it pertains to the nonprofit sector, is crucial.

 

What should you look for in a Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern resume?

Look for evidence of solid academic performance in relevant subjects, any previous internship or work experience in the legal field, and volunteering experience in nonprofit organizations.

Additionally, skills such as research, communication, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of legal and ethical considerations specific to nonprofit organizations are also important.

Certifications in relevant areas can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern?

A good Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern is typically empathetic and committed to helping others.

They need to be self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working under pressure.

Good interns are ethical, responsible, and trustworthy as they often handle sensitive information.

They should also be adaptable and able to learn quickly, as they may be required to work on a variety of tasks and projects.

 

Is it difficult to find Nonprofit Legal Assistance Interns?

Finding the right Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern can be challenging, as it requires a unique combination of legal knowledge, passion for nonprofit work, and a strong set of communication and research skills.

However, many law schools and colleges have internship programs and can be a good source of potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of what it means to be a Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying case laws.

It’s about shaping the justice system, one case at a time.

With our preferred Nonprofit Legal Assistance Intern job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make a difference.

But why stop there?

Probe deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously curated job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every case you handle is a step towards a more equitable society.

Let’s forge that future. Together.

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