2027 Midwest Regional Clerkship

Earthjustice • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Earthjustice is seeking summer law clerks for its Midwest Regional Program. This program focuses on legal advocacy and litigation in areas such as healthy communities, climate and energy, and lands and wildlife. The work involves fighting against projects that threaten natural resources and tribal rights, working with communities affected by pollution, and promoting sustainable agriculture and climate change solutions. Earthjustice, founded in 1971, is an environmental law organization that uses legal power and partnerships to protect health, preserve natural places, advance clean energy, and combat climate change. They partner with numerous groups to take on significant legal cases and have a strong record of achieving lasting environmental protections. Law students from across the country are invited to apply for a summer law clerk position, with the expectation that they will work in proximity to or within an Earthjustice office.

Requirements

• Must be enrolled in a U.S. law school through fall 2027 (not graduating before December 2027).
• Must be available to commit ten weeks during summer 2027.
• Must work from the U.S. during the clerkship.
• Resume.
• Cover letter addressing relevant background, reasons for interest in Earthjustice's mission and litigation teams, and inspiring environmental or public interest issues.
• A recent legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages, primarily reflecting your work, with a cover page indicating edits and feedback.
• Unofficial transcript.

Nice To Haves

• Tailor cover letter to specific litigation teams.

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 seminars on current environmental issues, interactions with environmental groups, and a job interview workshop.

Benefits

• Paid positions.
• One-time stipend of $1,382.00 per week (minus external funding and taxes).
• The clerkship is designed to be 10 weeks long at full-time hours (37.5 hours/week).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed