Fall 2027 Public Interest Legal Fellowships
About The Position
The American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts (ACLUM) is seeking candidates for externally-funded public interest legal fellowships. These fellowships are open to third-year law students and recent law graduates interested in civil rights and civil liberties work. ACLUM focuses on cutting-edge issues including free speech, immigrants’ rights, criminal justice, reproductive rights, transgender rights, open government, police accountability, government surveillance, racial justice, voting rights, and democracy. Selected fellows will work with ACLUM's Legal Director, managing attorneys, and staff attorneys on trial-level and appellate work, with a strong focus on litigation. Fellows may also engage in non-litigation advocacy such as public education, legislative work, public speaking, community organizing, and investigation. ACLUM staff will assist selected candidates in developing their funding proposals. The fellowship duration is determined by the funding organization's policy.
Requirements
- Excellent legal research, writing, and analysis skills.
- Demonstrated familiarity with issues related to civil rights, civil liberties, and social justice.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.
- Self-motivated with proven ability to work well with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Strong belief in the ACLU’s mission and work to defend and strengthen civil rights and liberties.
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Respect for differences in race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, ability, and socio-economic background.
- Third-year law students or recent law graduates.
Nice To Haves
- Current or recent judicial law clerks are encouraged to apply, but judicial clerkship experience is not required.
Responsibilities
- Work with ACLUM’s Legal Director, managing attorneys and staff attorneys on trial-level and appellate work.
- Focus on a particular issue or work on a range of issues, as permitted by the fellowship.
- Engage in non-litigation advocacy, such as public education, legislative work, public speaking, community organizing, and investigation.
- Assist in developing proposals for submission to funding organizations.
- Tailor proposals to address important civil rights or civil liberties issues.
Benefits
- 401(k) plan plus employer match
- Medical and dental insurance
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Reimbursement for mileage may be provided in accordance with ACLUM policies, when applicable.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
