Legal Intern Summer 2026

Legal Intern Summer 2026

EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Organization DRNY, the Protection and Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State is seeking an individual with a passion for achieving justice for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on civil rights and disability justice, DRNY actively works to break down the systemic oppression of all people with disabilities. DRNY recognizes the intersecting legacies and effect of ableism, white supremacy, colonial capitalism, and gendered oppression on people with disabilities. Joining DRNY is an opportunity to challenge systemic abuse, neglect, discrimination, and rights violations through case-handling, individual and systemic litigation, public investigations, advocacy, and collaboration with stakeholders. DRNY is committed to examining bias, privilege, racism, and intersectional social change in all aspects of our work. DRNY is a civil rights advocacy leader and we are seeking new staff who will contribute to our values and mission.

Description

The Internship program provides the Legal Intern the opportunity to utilize the education, knowledge, and experiences acquired during their undergraduate and graduate education. The Legal Intern will have the opportunity to enhance skills through active participation and involvement in practical experiences and a variety of functions. The Legal Intern will also work closely with various staff members to prepare for a career in the legal field.

This is an unpaid internship. Interns may be eligible for academic course credit with school approval. Interns may also apply for funding from their school or other available sources. The internship can be full-time or part-time.

Essential Functions

The Legal Intern performs a wide range of duties, including the following:

• Assist Staff Attorneys with the preparation of legal documents for trials, hearings, and depositions;

• Attend trials, hearings, depositions, and related events;

• Provide critical research and feedback to the attorneys for any case, study, or assigned tasks;

• Conduct analysis on legal strategies for the various programs supported by DRNY;

• Proofread and provide content suggestions for legal documentation;

• Provide general legal support to the program attorneys, plus other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited law school;

• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word/Excel/Outlook/PowerPoint);

• Ability to write and present in a polished and professional manner;

• Strong communication skills;

• Must have the highest standard of organization and attention to detail;

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred);

• Passionate about issues affecting individuals with disabilities (preferred);

• Excellent legal research skills;

• Commitment to the mission and vision of DRNY;

• Able to work independently;

• Ability to prioritize and manage projects and tasks to meet deadlines;

• Able to work remotely with personal internet access.

Working Conditions

• Work typically performed remotely with the majority of time spent working on a computer;

• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, and phones;

• A Legal Intern may have some travel within and outside the state as necessary for firsthand experience.

Please forward Cover Letter, Resume, and Writing Sample when applying for this position.

To view more about our organization, check out our YouTube videos highlighting DRNY's mission in advocating for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. Please visit ourDRNY YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcJEFJXGgiZwE4zbw2BKg) and review ourDRNY Press Releases (https://www.drny.org/page/press-releases-27.html) .

Position Requirements

Exempt/Non-Exempt Exempt

Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time and/or Part-Time

Location Disability Rights New York - Rochester

Position Legal Intern Summer 2026

Number of Openings 1

This position is currently accepting applications.