Pro Bono Fellowships for New Attorneys

The ACLU of Washington is accepting applications from new attorneys for full-time, one-year fellowships beginning in June or September 2009. The attorneys will serve as Legal Fellows or Public Policy Fellows. They will be supervised by experienced ACLU lawyers and may work with ACLU communications, field, and legislative staff as well.

Legal Fellowships

The Legal Fellows will work with the team of four attorneys and staff in our Legal Department conducting legal research, writing legal memoranda and drafting correspondence to government agencies in response to documented complaints of civil liberties and civil rights violations. They will assist in the development of cases for litigation, preparation of cases for trial and submission of amicus curiae briefs in courts of appeal.

Public Policy Fellowships

Public Policy Fellows will work with attorneys and professional staff in the Policy Advocacy Group. The work involves legal and policy research and writing, negotiation, public speaking, and advocacy. Two fellowships are available. The fellowship in our Liberty and Security program will involve issues relating to government surveillance, border control authority, surveillance technologies, and due process. The fellowship in our Criminal Justice program will involve legal and policy issues surrounding Washington's use of the death penalty.

To Apply

Send a cover letter, resume, writing sample and list of references to Fellowships@ACLU-WA.org.  Please indicate which position(s) you are interested in: the general Legal Department, the Liberty and Security Program, or the Criminal Justice Program.  The cover letter should explain your interest and describe relevant experience, including your commitment to public interest work.  The positions will be open until filled.

Financial arrangements

The ACLU cannot provide funding for these positions, however the fellows will be covered by ACLU-WA’s malpractice insurance. Prior to hiring, the applicant must show proof of health care coverage.

People of color, LGTB individuals, and people with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.