The Community Health Law Project (CHLP) is a statewide non-profit organization that provides advocacy and legal services to low-income individuals living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, and the frail elderly. CHLP offers services in a number of areas including, but not limited to, Social Security Disability Insurance, Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid/Medicare, Welfare/SNAP benefits, landlord-tenant matters, family law, consumer law, guardianships, home care issues involving private duty nursing, personal care assistance, and durable medical equipment.
Founded in 1958, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation (NJSBF) has been dedicated to carrying out the charitable and educational endeavors of the organized bar, specifically the New Jersey State Bar Association. Believing that “informed citizens are better citizens,” the Foundation strives to educate everyone in New Jersey—from students to senior citizens—about their rights and responsibilities under the law. Today, the Foundation stands as a model for law-related education organizations across the country.
The Summer Associate Law Internship position is a collaboration between NJSBF and CHLP to provide Summer Associates experience working with clients living with mental health, developmental, and physical disabilities. The Community Health Law Project offers a supportive and great working environment where you can work with diverse individuals, explore new ways of thinking, and expand your capabilities. The Summer Associate Law Intern will receive in-depth training and guidance from our professional attorneys and advocates who have years of demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of public interest work. Interns will assist with all aspects of legal counsel and representation including interviewing clients, factual investigation, legal research, brief writing, outreach presentations and appearances in court.
Qualifications:
▪ Currently enrolled in a Law School’s degree program.
▪ Has completed at least 1 year of a Law School degree program.
▪ Strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills.
▪ Expressed interest in working with low-income individuals with disabilities.
▪ Basic understanding of Microsoft Office applications.
▪ Willing to work under the direction of our Managing Attorneys.
▪ Intend to live or work in New Jersey after graduation.
▪ Ability to commute and work out of our Elizabeth or Bloomfield regional offices.
Role & Responsibilities:
▪ Assisting attorneys in all aspects of legal counsel and representation.
▪ Meeting with and interviewing clients.
▪ Conducting legal research and drafting pleadings.
▪ Attending and assisting with court appearances and administrative hearings.
▪ Preparing and participating in outreach presentations to partner agencies and the community.
▪ Must be willing to join the New Jersey State Bar Association.
▪ Must be willing to attend the NJSBF kick-off event and any education sessions coordinated to support Summer Associates.
Length of Term and Salary:
▪ The Summer Associate Internship position is a 10-week paid position that will begin June, 2026. The Summer Associate Intern will earn $1,000 per week for the 10-week period.
How to Apply:
▪ Interested candidates should send a resume, short writing sample, and cover letter with a mission statement specifying a commitment to social and economic justice. Materials should be addressed to Community Health Law Project, 185 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079, Attn: Josue Serrano, Senior Manager of Contracts and Development at JSerrano@chlp.org