Detained Immigration Unit Law Student Intern

Job Description

Job Description

About VLP: The Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project, Inc. (VLP) is a not-for-profit corporation that provides free civil legal services to low-income people and small non-profit groups in a variety of legal matters including but not limited to detained and non-detained immigration, family law, eviction defense, matrimonial matters, consumer matters, estates, and end of life planning. Intern with VLP and help give a voice to those who are not heard!

Benefits of Interning with VLP:

• Direct Client Interaction
• Court Observation
• Parking stipend
• Development of Writing Sample
• Opportunity to Network with Local Attorneys
• In-House Training, Supervision, and Mentorship
• Potential for Court Appearances with Student Practice Order (for qualified law students)
• Complimentary Attendance at VLP-Sponsored Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Programs
• Monetary Stipend (for qualified law students; Limited to certain programs)
• Commitment Letters for Those Seeking Alternate Sources of Funding for Positions at VLP

Minimum Qualifications: Current student or recent graduate.

**NOTE** If you are interested in applying to more than one internship, please apply to your first choice. You will have an opportunity to select alternative internships during the application process.

Applicants for Spring 2026 Internships will be contacted in November 2025.

DETAINED IMMIGRATION PROGRAM LAW STUDENT INTERNSHIP

Location: 45 Ellicott Street Suite 1 Batavia, NY 14020

Qualifications: Current law student. Access to a reliable vehicle is required. A strong desire to work with detained non-citizens in removal proceedings is required. Some background in immigration law is preferred. Fluency in Spanish or French is a plus.

Description: The law student will be involved in interviewing detained clients and screening them for relief at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, NY. The student will also engage in legal research, gathering evidence, and country conditions research. The student will be offered the chance to observe and participate in an Immigration Court hearing.