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 toSenior 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 bolthires 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 Apply tot his job