Pro Bono Program Summer 2025 Clerkship

The Animal Legal Defense Fund summer clerkship program gives law students who demonstrate an interest in animal law the opportunity to work with and be trained by top experts in the field.

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At a glance

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The Animal Legal Defense Fund summer clerkship program gives law students who demonstrate an interest in animal law the opportunity to work with and be trained by top experts in the field. Clerks are integral members of a program team and work on projects that further the current work of the program and advance the mission and goals of the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Clerks also participate in activities that will allow them to network across the organization with Animal Legal Defense Fund staff and other clerks, and engage them in the mission and goals of the organization. 

Key Responsibilities

The Pro Bono Program works to expand the practice and understanding of animal law in the legal community. Students will complete research on law firms, bar associations, CLEs, and various opportunities and issues in animal law, such as:   

• Landlord, tenant, and other housing related issues   
• Animal custody disputes  
• Dangerous dog designations and breed-specific restrictions   
• Tort law matters and issues of negligence  
• Issues related to animals being considered property under the law 

Specific responsibilities vary by program and will be further discussed during interviews. All clerks and externs will participate in scheduled networking and engagement activities. Externs may have additional requirements depending on their school’s externship program.  

Compensation:

• $20/ hour 
• Paid holidays  

The Successful Candidate

• Experience as a rising 3L (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 is preferred. 

We strongly encourage persons from diverse backgrounds to apply.   

Apply now