DescriptionStep into the courtroom and stand beside survivors seeking justice. The Legal Advocacy Internship at A Safe Place provides aspiring legal professionals with frontline experience in domestic violence law, survivor advocacy, and the real-world impact of trauma‑informed legal services.This internship immerses students in the Legal Advocacy Program, which supports survivors through:Courtroom accompanimentOrder of Protection filingsCrisis safety planningSystemic advocacy with prosecutors, law enforcement, and community partnersWhat You'll DoSupport legal advocates during client intakes, preparing documentation for Orders of Protection and safety planningShadow court appearances, learn courtroom procedures, and observe advocacy in actionHelp develop legal resource guides and support materials for survivorsAssist in maintaining confidential case files and digital records in compliance with agency protocolsParticipate in public education events, police trainings, or law enforcement briefingsObserve coordination between legal, crisis, and housing teams for holistic survivor careResearch domestic violence policy updates, county‑level procedures, and survivor protections under Illinois lawCompensation & ScheduleThis internship is unpaid; course credit is available if approved by your institution. The schedule is flexible, with a minimum of 10–15 hours per week, including occasional evenings or weekend events.RequirementsPursuing a degree in Pre‑Law, Legal Studies, Criminal Justice, Social Work, or a related fieldPassionate about justice, survivor safety, and systems‑level changeStrong emotional intelligence and sensitivity to traumaOrganized, proactive, and ready to contribute in fast‑paced environmentsBilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not requiredComfortable working both independently and collaborativelyProficient in Microsoft Office, Teams, and digital documentation toolsStrong communicator with a heart for social justice and survivor‑centered careAble to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standardsReliable transportation and flexibility to attend events or court sessions during the dayWhat You'll GainIn‑depth knowledge of how legal advocacy supports survivors of domestic violenceShadowing opportunities with legal advocates, prosecutors, and court personnelExperience supporting survivors through high‑stakes legal transitionsTraining in trauma‑informed practices, Illinois Domestic Violence Act, Orders of Protection, and court protocolsThe opportunity to make a tangible difference in someone's pursuit of safety and justiceA resume‑building, meaningful experience in survivor advocacy, public interest law, or court‑based supportTraining in the Illinois Model for Comprehensive Assessment of Needs and Strengths (IM+CANS)40‑Hour Domestic Violence Certification Training (Provided at a discounted rate)Please note:Completion of the 40‑hour Domestic Violence & Crisis Intervention Training is a requirement for all interns. This training is provided by A Safe Place at a discounted cost of $150. Payment instructions and training dates will be shared upon acceptance into the program.Application InstructionsPlease submit the following materials to be considered for this internship:Your resumeA brief letter of interest outlining your availability and why this opportunity resonates with your goalsOne (1) letter of recommendationLetter of RecommendationThe letter should come from a faculty member or professional reference who can speak to your character, work ethic, or readiness for an internship experience. Letters from family members or personal friends will not be accepted.Rolling Interviews—Apply Early!Flexible start/end dates.At A Safe Place, we help survivors find their voice in court—and their strength beyond it.This is more than an internship—it's a frontline seat in the fight for justice.#J-18808-Ljbffr