Criminal Justice Program Clerkship

Job Description: • Participate in the Animal Legal Defense Fund summer clerkship program and receive training from top experts in animal law. • Complete legal and factual research and prepare a variety of written work products. • Assist Animal Legal Defense Fund attorneys in responding to crimes against animals and in broadening animal law to secure just outcomes for animal victims. • Prepare motions and legal memos responsive to immediate cases. • Develop longer-term resources such as resource guides, position statements, and model laws to create systemic improvement. • Work as an integral member of a program team, network across the organization with staff and other clerks, and engage in the organization’s mission and goals. • Report to Senior Staff Attorneys and Managing Attorneys. • Support the Criminal Justice Program’s work: investigatory and trial-level assistance, producing amicus curiae briefs, supporting legislative efforts, educating criminal justice practitioners, and crafting legal arguments for jurisprudential change. • Commit to 35 hours/week for 10 weeks in summer 2026, starting end of May or beginning of June. Requirements: • Experience as a current 2L (or part-time program equivalent) or LLM student at an ABA accredited law school. • Eligibility to work in the United States. • A sincere interest in animal protection. • Superior legal research and writing skills, including the ability to tailor voice and style to various audiences. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • A positive attitude and ability to work cooperatively with others and function well in a mission-driven, team-oriented work environment. • A willingness to accept a variety of assignments within the expanding field of animal law. • Excellent organizational, prioritization, and time management skills. • An ability to work independently and remotely. • An ability to use discretion, keeping in mind the confidential and emotional aspects of our work. • Access to a computer with internet and Microsoft Suite. • Familiarity with animal law, criminal law, or both is preferred. • Required application documents: resume, cover letter, list of 2-3 professional references, law school transcript (unofficial okay), and original writing sample. • Clerks will be required to provide a personal United States address and to work primarily from that address. Benefits: • Compensation: $20/ hour • Paid holidays • Students may receive academic credit from their law schools for completing externships • Student volunteer positions include students who can receive pro bono credits for their law schools, and students whose schools provide a public interest stipend