Legal Fellow

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Connecticut, +4 more states.

📋 Description

• Perform legal research pertaining to U.S. law.

• Draft legal memorandums, court briefs, and filings applicable to U.S. and other legal frameworks.

• Collaborate with communities, partner NGOs, and co-counsel to formulate legal and advocacy strategies.

• Investigate legal strategies aimed at defending the human and environmental rights of frontline communities.

• Articulate EarthRights’ initiatives through web content and media outreach.

• Contribute to EarthRights publications.

• If the fellowship extends beyond one year, engage in the hiring and supervision of interns starting in the second year.

• Create a fellowship project that aligns with both the applicant’s interests and the needs of the U.S. Legal Team.

• Function as a cohesive member of the U.S. Legal Team under the guidance of the Senior Staff Attorney, receiving substantive mentorship.

⛳️ Requirements

• Must be a current U.S. law student or have graduated from a U.S. law school within the last two years.

• 0–2 years of pertinent experience.

• A commitment to leveraging the U.S. legal system to assist communities facing human and/or environmental challenges.

• Experience collaborating with impacted communities, Indigenous populations, and/or grassroots organizations.

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively within teams.

• A solid dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Background or experience in international human rights, environmental law, civil rights law, corporate accountability, and/or Indigenous peoples’ rights.

• Experience in regional studies, development, environmental sciences, or related fields.

• Interest and/or experience in U.S. litigation.

• Excellent research and writing abilities.

• Proficiency in foreign languages.

• Authorization to work in the United States is required.

• Application must include a resume, a writing sample no longer than 10 pages, and a draft project prospectus.

🏝️ Benefits

• 20 days of vacation and 15 sick days per year.

• 13 paid federal holidays; the office is closed from December 24 to January 1.

• $200 stipend for home office expenses.

• Generous employer non-elective retirement contributions.

• Flexible Spending Plan (FSA).

• Employee wellness and transportation benefits.

• 18 weeks of paid maternity/paternity leave for eligible employees.

• Annual caregiving benefits of $2,000.

• Substantial budget for professional development.

• Remote work options available from Connecticut, Maryland, New York, Virginia, Washington, and DC.

• A relaxed work environment.

• This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500.