2027 Oceans Clerkship
About The Position
Earthjustice's Oceans Program is dedicated to safeguarding oceans and marine wildlife from threats like overfishing, oil and gas drilling, and habitat degradation. The program comprises 10 full-time attorneys, a litigation paralegal, and a litigation assistant, primarily litigating cases in federal court and advocating for ocean resource protection within the United States. They also work internationally to protect marine ecosystems and vulnerable species by enhancing international provisions in U.S. fisheries management laws and collaborating with global advocates. Summer clerks will engage in a variety of international and domestic ocean matters. Founded in 1971, Earthjustice has a proven history of securing significant and enduring environmental protections. They leverage legal expertise and collaborative partnerships to safeguard public health, preserve natural environments and wildlife, advance clean energy, and combat climate change. Partnering with thousands of organizations and supporters, Earthjustice tackles major, precedent-setting cases nationwide, demonstrating a strong record of achieving lasting environmental safeguards. The organization believes in the necessity of legal advocacy for the planet. They invite all interested law students from across the country to apply for a summer law clerk position, with the expectation that students will work in proximity to or within an office where the program is based.
Requirements
- Must be enrolled in a U.S. law school through fall 2027 (i.e., not graduating before December 2027).
- Must be available to commit ten weeks during summer 2027.
- Must work from the U.S. during their clerkship.
- Resume.
- Cover letter that addresses: (1) relevant aspects of your background that are not apparent or fully explained in your resume; (2) why you are drawn to Earthjustice’s mission and the litigation teams for which you are applying; and (3) whether there are particular environmental or public interest issues that inspire you.
- A recent legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages that primarily reflects your work.
- Unofficial transcript.
Nice To Haves
- Tailor your cover letter to describe why you are interested in that specific team.
Responsibilities
- Work with several attorneys on case development and litigation strategy.
- Draft pleadings and briefs.
- Conduct legal research.
- Develop strategy and legal theories.
- Gather evidence.
- Attend client meetings and court proceedings.
- Participate in programmatic offerings such as in-person and virtual seminars with attorneys and guest speakers on current environmental issues.
- Engage in interactions with other local and regional environmental groups.
- Participate in a job interview workshop.
Benefits
- Paid positions
- One-time stipend of $1,382.00 per week (minus external funding and applicable taxes)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
