Get Involved in Legal Advocacy at dLCV

Home / Get Involved in Legal Advocacy at dLCV

Get Involved in Legal Advocacy at dLCV

The disAbility Law Center of Virginia (dLCV) partners with attorneys, students, and emerging professionals who are committed to advancing disability rights.

Whether you are seeking a pro bono opportunity or an internship experience, there are multiple ways to contribute to meaningful, systems-level advocacy across Virginia.

Internships & Externships

dLCV offers internship and externship opportunities for students and emerging professionals who are committed to advancing disability rights.

Through hands-on experience, interns and externs work alongside advocates, attorneys, and staff to support legal research, policy initiatives, outreach, and systemic advocacy efforts.

What You’ll Gain

  • Experience working in disability rights advocacy
  • Exposure to legal, policy, and outreach work
  • Opportunities to contribute to real projects
  • Mentorship from experienced advocates and attorneys

Who Should Apply

We welcome applications from:

  • Law students
  • Masters of Social Work Students
  • Other Graduate students
  • Individuals interested in public interest and disability rights

At this time, dLCV’s internship and externship opportunities are limited to graduate-level students, including those enrolled in law and social work programs.

We value the interest of undergraduate students and encourage you to stay connected by exploring volunteer opportunities with dLCV.

Areas of Work

Depending on program needs and your background, placements may include:

  • Legal research and writing
  • Policy and legislative research
  • Outreach and education support
  • Data and systems analysis
  • Administrative or programmatic support

Program Details

  • Opportunities may be offered on a semester, summer, or project basis
  • Some placements may be eligible for academic credit
  • Availability and assignments vary based on organizational needs

Pro Bono & Volunteer Attorneys

Because of our limited resources, many people who request our legal services receive only short-term assistance and referral, even though our clients are often in need of a higher level of legal representation. dLCV partners with attorneys, law firms, paralegals, and legal professionals to expand access to justice for individuals with disabilities across Virginia.

Pro bono volunteers support a range of efforts, from legal research and litigation support to policy advocacy and participation in dLCV’s amicus program.

How You Can Help

Opportunities may include:

  • Legal research and writing
  • Litigation support
  • Policy and legislative analysis
  • Amicus brief drafting and review
  • Case consultation or limited representation

Who Should Apply

  • Licensed attorneys
  • Law firms
  • Paralegals and legal professionals
  • Individuals with relevant legal experience

Program Expectations

  • Volunteers may be matched based on experience and organizational need
  • All work is coordinated with dLCV staff
  • Confidentiality and conflict screening are required prior to placement