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 will complete research for an upcoming Aquatic Animal Law & Policy Textbook.
Students will assist the Senior Student Programs Attorney with completing legal, factual, regulatory, and policy research relating to a wide variety of aquatic animal law issues.
General editing and checking sources and citations; and preparing written work products.
Clerks will also assist with student chapter outreach, animal law curriculum development, and project and event planning.

Experience as a rising 3L (will have completed their 2L year or part-time equivalent prior to summer 2026) 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.
Positive attitude and ability to work cooperatively with others and function well in a mission-driven, team-oriented work environment.
Willingness to accept a variety of assignments within the expanding field of animal law.
Excellent organizational, prioritization, and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and remotely.
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.

Animal Legal Education & Scholarship Program Clerkship

Key skills