Legal Services Intern

Who we are

Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates (LIA) is a nonprofit on Michigan’s Lakeshore that provides affordable immigration legal services. We believe Michigan’s immigrant families strengthen our community and economy, and we work to ensure they have access to justice, respect and stability.

Why intern with LIA?

• Make a real impact
• Work alongside attorneys, case managers, educators and advocates to support immigrant families
• Your contributions—whether drafting documents, conducting outreach or assisting at legal clinics—will help ensure our clients receive timely, compassionate services
• Develop marketable skills
• Depending on your track, you’ll gain handson experience in client intake, legal research, case preparation, community outreach, event planning, fund development, marketing and communications
• You’ll also learn to navigate professional tools such as casemanagement systems, donor CRMs and digital communication platforms
• Mentorship and learning
• You’ll be paired with experienced staff who provide guidance, feedback and opportunities for reflection
• Interns are encouraged to bring their unique talents and interests to projects
• Inclusive, supportive culture
• LIA values diversity, equity and inclusion and strives to create a welcoming environment
• We encourage applicants of all backgrounds and identities to apply

Internship tracks

• New American Legal Clinic (Asylum & Afghan cases)
• Immigration Legal Services (Family and Humanitarian Cases)
• Fund Development, Marketing & Communications

Program structure & schedule

• Fall & Winter terms: 12 to 20 hours per week (parttime), running January–April or September–December
• Summer term: up to 20 hours per week (parttime), running May–August

Qualifications

• Passion for immigrant justice and alignment with LIA’s mission
• Tell us why this work matters to you
• Strong communication skills in English; fluency in Spanish, Arabic, Pashto/Dari, French or other languages is a plus
• Professionalism and discretion; many clients are sharing sensitive information
• Organizational ability and a willingness to learn; experience with office software (Google Suite, Microsoft Office) is helpful but not required
• You must be at least 18 and able to commute to our Holland or Grand Rapids locations; some projects require travel to offsite clinics

How To Apply

Submit your application online at https://lia.easyapply.co. You will be asked to select your preferred track(s) and term, list your availability and education level, and upload the following:

• Resume
• Cover letter – Explain why you want to intern at LIA and your professional goals over the next 2–5 years
• Writing sample (1–2 pages, academic or professional)
• References – Names and contact information for three professional or academic references

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview, please contact careers@liamichigan.org.