PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The ACLU of Illinois sponsors applications of third-year law students and attorneys who are interested in obtaining funding for fellowships from outside sources, such as Equal Justice Works, Skadden, Soros, and others. These organizations provide funding for attorneys who wish to pursue public interest work. Potential applicants are encouraged to visit www.equaljusticeworks.org, www.soros.org/initiative/justice, www.skadden.com, and www.echoinggreen.org to obtain more details about each organization’s application process and deadline. We also encourage potential applicants to identify other funding opportunities and to bring them to our attention.
The Chicago office has a staff of six experienced civil liberties attorneys and four fellows. Special projects include Reproductive Rights, LGBT/HIV, Institutionalized Persons, Children’s Rights, Racial Justice, National Security, and the First Amendment. We are interested in collaborating with prospective applicants on proposals.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
In general, the Fellow will work along with senior staff counsel in all aspects of litigation, including trial and appellate work. The Fellow will also do public speaking and work on legislative matters. The length of the Fellowship will be governed by the policy of the funding agency. Application deadlines typically occur in early Fall for a fellowship that begins the following fall.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants should be self-motivated, committed to civil liberties, and have the proven ability to work with a wide range of people. Excellent research and writing skills are necessary. Third-year law students and attorneys with one to three years of experience are invited to apply.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Salary and benefits will, in general, be granted according to the guidelines of the funding agency.
APPLICATIONS:
Applicants should send a resume, a cover letter indicating the program of interest, a list of references, a law school transcript and a legal writing sample. Applications should be sent to Fellowship Committee, ACLU of Illinois, 180 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 2300, Chicago, Illinois 60601. Please do not send your application by e-mail.