Legal Intern 2026 Opportunity: Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth Remote Internship in Criminal Justice Reform
The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth has announced a Legal Intern position for Fall 2026, offering an opportunity for law students and recent graduates to engage in criminal justice reform work focused on youth sentencing in the United States. The internship is available remotely or in a hybrid format and begins between mid-August and early September 2026.
This role supports the organization’s mission to eliminate life-without-parole sentences for youth and promote fair, restorative approaches within the justice system.
About the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth
The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth is a nonprofit legal advocacy organization founded in 2009. It focuses on:
- Ending life-without-parole sentences for youth
- Advancing sentencing reform policies
- Supporting individuals impacted by extreme sentencing
- Promoting rehabilitation and reintegration opportunities
The organization works closely with legal partners, policymakers, and communities to create systemic change in youth sentencing laws across the United States.
Internship Overview
The Legal Intern position is part of the Legal and Policy Department and reports directly to the Research and Implementation Counsel. The role is designed to support ongoing litigation, research, and policy reform efforts.
Key details include:
- Location: Remote (United States) or Washington, DC hybrid
- Start Date: Flexible (mid-August to early September 2026)
- Duration: Approximately 10–12 weeks
- Hours: 15–19 hours per week
- Compensation: $18.40 per hour
- Application Deadline: June 15, 2026 (priority review)
Key Responsibilities
The Legal Intern contributes to a wide range of legal and policy tasks, including:
Legal Research and Writing
- Drafting legal memos on youth sentencing laws and parole eligibility
- Analyzing court decisions and legislative developments
- Researching potential legal reform strategies
Policy and Advocacy Support
- Assisting in drafting advocacy materials for state-level reform
- Supporting policy development and legislative analysis
- Contributing to external publications on youth sentencing issues
Technical and Implementation Support
- Supporting legal tools and resources for litigators
- Maintaining documentation related to sentencing outcomes
- Tracking parole hearings and resentencing data
Required Qualifications
Applicants must typically meet the following criteria:
- Current JD student or recent graduate of an ABA-accredited law school
- Strong legal research skills (LexisNexis, Westlaw, or similar tools)
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to analyze statutes, case law, and legislative documents
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills
- Capacity to work independently and collaboratively
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates demonstrate:
- Interest in criminal justice reform and human rights
- Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and stakeholders
- Commitment to ethical and equity-focused legal work
- Adaptability in a fast-evolving policy environment
Work Environment
The internship is designed to be flexible and remote-friendly. Interns may work from anywhere in the United States, with optional access to the organization’s Washington, DC office.
Key features include:
- Remote or hybrid work arrangement
- Temporary part-time structure
- Exposure to national-level policy reform work
- Collaboration with legal professionals and advocacy teams
Application Process
Applicants must submit a complete application package via email.
Required materials include:
- Letter of interest
- Resume
- Two professional references (contact information only)
- Single PDF file submission
Applications are sent to:
Applicants should use the subject line:
“Last Name Legal Intern”
Why This Internship Matters
This internship provides direct exposure to one of the most important areas of criminal justice reform—youth sentencing policy. Interns contribute to legal research and advocacy that supports individuals affected by extreme sentencing laws while helping shape future reforms.
By participating in this program, interns gain practical legal experience while contributing to broader efforts aimed at fairness, rehabilitation, and systemic justice reform.
Conclusion
The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth Legal Intern 2026 program offers a valuable opportunity for emerging legal professionals interested in human rights and criminal justice reform. With flexible remote work, structured mentorship, and meaningful policy impact, this internship serves as a strong stepping stone into public interest law and advocacy careers.
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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
