U.S. Department of Justice
Job Description
Hiring Organization USAO Southern District of Illinois Hiring Office Fairview Heights, IL Job ID 26-SDIL-02 Location:9 Executive Dr.Fairview Heights, IL 62208 - United States Application Deadline:Tuesday, May 19, 2026 About the Office The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Illinois (USAO) serves as the principal litigator representing the United States of America within the district.The United States Attorney has the responsibility and authority to prosecute violations of federal criminal statutes, defend the government in civil actions, seek the enforcement of a variety of civil enforcement statutes, and institute proceedings for the collection of fines and penalties, among other things.The USAO maintains offices in Fairview Heights, Illinois, as well as in Benton, Illinois.The USAO strives to provide a rewarding work environment for all employees.Job Description Interns are routinely assigned to perform legal research and writing assignments in federal civil, criminal, or appellate cases.Interns work closely with Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) on case development and formulation of legal strategy.Interns are afforded regular opportunities to attend and observe various court proceedings.Qualifications Second and third-year law students only.Strong academic standing and research skills.Applicants must be U.S.citizens.All students selected for an internship are subject to successful completion of a suitability review and a favorable determination based on information provided in their security forms, a credit report, and fingerprint check.During the period of the internship, interns are not permitted to work for any other law firm, legal clinic, or other entity engaged in the practice of law.Applicants must have resided in the U.S.for three of the five years immediately prior to applying (unless the period of outside residency was pursuant to military service or federal employment).Application Process Complete application packages may be addressed to the Internship Hiring Committee and submitted by email to usails.internships@usdoj.gov Application packages must include the following:Cover letter explaining the applicant's interest in this particular office.Resume (not to exceed two pages) Unofficial law school transcript All documents should be submitted in pdf format and the subject line of the email should read Fall 2026 Intern Application. All application materials must be received by 11:59 p.m.(CT) on Monday, May 19, 2026.Salary Student Volunteer (Uncompensated).Academic course credit and work-study credit are possible depending upon school requirements..