Job Description
ABOUT THE JOB
The ACLU invites rising third-year law students and law graduates to apply for a sponsorship opportunity to work with us as a Legal Fellow for up to one/two year(s). The Disability Rights Project of the National office in San Francisco, CA or Washington, D.C. seeks applicants for a sponsored fellowship such as Equal Justice Works or other public interest fellowships to begin in fall 2026. This is a hybrid role requiring in-office presence of two (2) days per week or eight (8) days per month.
OVERVIEW
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted by June 27, 2025 . Please tailor your cover letter to include a proposed project. Candidates can propose projects in areas such as AI and algorithmic discrimination against people with disabilities, discrimination against people with mental health and substance use disorders in the criminal legal system, or disability challenges to voter suppression laws. Proposals on other disability and civil liberties topics are also welcome. This position is part of a collective bargaining unit, represented by ACLU Staff United (ASU).
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Reporting to the Project Director, the Fellow will focus on litigation projects related to:
AI and algorithmic discrimination against people with disabilities
Discrimination against people with mental health and substance use disorders in the criminal legal system
Disability challenges to voter suppression laws
Or other topics related to disability and civil liberties
YOUR DAY TO DAY
Conduct legal research and develop theories for litigation
Draft legal memoranda, pleadings, affidavits, motions, and briefs
Interview witnesses and potential clients
Participate in discovery and trial practice
Draft and edit public education and advocacy materials
Support ACLU affiliates and cooperating attorneys
Help manage the summer legal internship program and supervise interns
Engage in public speaking and attend meetings/conferences as needed
FUTURE ACLU'ERS WILL
Be committed to advancing the ACLU's mission
Embed principles of equity, inclusion, and belonging in their work
Work collaboratively and respectfully to resolve obstacles and conflicts
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
J.D. or expected J.D. by spring 2026
Commitment to public interest law, civil liberties, disability rights, and the disability community
Willingness to work with the Disability Rights Project during the funding application process
Excellent research, writing, and communication skills
Ability to conduct complex legal analysis and fact-finding
Interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and in a team
Self-motivated, able to manage tasks and see projects through
COMPENSATION
The ACLU offers a salary scale based on years since law school graduation, with ranges from $92,374 to over $210,677. Salaries are based in New York, NY, with regional adjustments possible. For details, visit:
WHY THE ACLU
For over 100 years, the ACLU has defended individual rights and liberties, tackling issues like mass incarceration, LGBTQ+ equality, digital privacy, voting rights, and reproductive rights. We value our people and offer benefits including paid time off, comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
OUR COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
We are committed to creating a culture of belonging that respects and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, or criminal record. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. For assistance, email benefits.hrdept@aclu.org .
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Job Tags
Work at office, 2 days per week,