Legal/Constitutional Intern

About the Independence Institute
Founded in 1985, the Independence Institute is a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that remains a highly respected voice in public policy today.

LEGAL STUDIES

Legal interns at II work directly with one or both of America’s top constitutional scholars, Dave Kopel and Rob Natelson. 

Dave Kopel is the nation’s premier expert on the Second Amendment, and also has written widely on the Colorado Constitution and on other constitutional, historical, and philosophical topics. His publications were crucial to the Supreme Court’s 2008 recognition of an individual right to keep and bear arms. His research has been cited by the Supreme Court and by numerous federal appeals courts.

Rob Natelson, a former constitutional law professor, works in all areas of constitutional law, but is best known for his studies of the Constitution’s original meaning. His research has been cited by U.S. Supreme Court justices 39 times—among the most for any scholar nationwide—and by the highest courts of at least 18 states. He also writes on the Colorado and Montana constitutions and publishes for the popular market as well.


CONSTITUTIONAL STUDIES

Constitutional Studies interns work with one of America’s leading originalist constitutional scholars. They gain real-world experience in legal research, composing briefs and articles, and similar skills. Some interns do historical research and some work in state constitutional law. Specific projects vary widely.

The intern selection process is highly competitive; in some years, no applicants are selected at all. Applicants must have successfully completed at least one year in law school with superior grades. Also helpful, although not required, are