Law Student - Public Interest in Brockton, MA

Public Interest

Brockton, MA

Law Student - Public Interest in Brockton, MA

Law Student

No

Job Title: Internship Fall - Elder Law Unit

Overview:
The organization, along with its subsidiary, the Justice Center of Southeast Massachusetts, offers non-profit legal services that provide free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income and elder residents facing various legal issues. The primary mission is to achieve justice for clients through community-based advocacy and high-quality, time-sensitive assistance to at-risk individuals. Intern applications are accepted on a rolling basis for field offices located in Brockton, Fall River, New Bedford, and Hyannis. The nature and depth of the work experience will depend on the candidate’s availability and experience. Work-study applications are considered using the same process and for similar work types.

Job Responsibilities:
Interns are expected to commit to approximately 10 hours of work per week during the academic year, with flexibility to accommodate academic and work schedules. Students participating in co-op programs or other work programs are encouraged to consider longer commitments, such as a semester or school year. Summer interns are expected to work full-time, approximately 35 hours per week for about 10 weeks, with possible modifications based on school or program requirements. Although the organization does not directly compensate interns, support is provided for candidates who have secured alternative funding sources, and necessary paperwork is promptly prepared when requested. Fellowship applicants are accepted, and participation in work-study programs operated through schools is available.

Positions:
The organization and its subsidiary offer a wide range of services and strive to match intern applicants with their areas of interest to a staff person in an accessible office. However, office space and program needs may vary, requiring applicants to be realistic about travel arrangements and flexible with their circumstances. Hybrid in-person and remote work options are available, but fully remote options are typically unavailable. Active practice areas include housing, family law, consumer law, benefits, and elder law, along with a Private Attorney Involvement program. The subsidiary focuses on education, immigration, and housing legal needs. Additional projects may be available based on yearly funding opportunities.

Education and Experience Information:
Interns with varying levels of availability can expect to receive orientation, learning opportunities, and court/hearing observations. Opportunities may include conducting intakes, gathering information, performing smaller research projects, or assisting staff with case preparation. Summer interns and those in longer-term or larger-scope programs like a co-op will have additional opportunities to assist in casework and provide direct service to clients. Depending on experience, skill level, and relevant certifications, direct representation on certain legal matters may be possible. These interns may also attend additional events, learning opportunities, and training sessions.

Salary Information:
The organization currently does not provide direct compensation to interns. However, support is available for candidates who have secured alternative funding sources.

How to Apply:
Applications are considered on a rolling basis, with limited availability to host interns, especially for larger commitments. For full consideration, submit a resume, two references, and a cover letter with a subject line of "Internship Application." If work-study or funding opportunities are being requested, state this clearly. The organization considers all kinds of experience, not just credentials, and encourages questions about the application process.

The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences. It fosters an inclusive environment where staff, clients, and community members are valued, empowered, and recognized, especially individuals from marginalized communities that are often under-resourced, underserved, and underrepresented.