Nonprofit
2026-2028 Legal Fellow
Details
Description
The California Youth Defender Center invites rising third-year law students and recent law graduates to apply for a sponsorship opportunity to work with us as a Legal Fellow for up to one/two year(s). We seek applicants to consider us for a sponsored fellowship such as Equal Justice Work, Skadden, Soros or other public interest fellowships to begin in the fall of 2026. This is a remote role which requires some in person meetings, convenings, and travel around California.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- J.D. or expected to receive a J.D. by the spring of 2026
- Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, youth justice, and racial justice
- Willingness to work closely with CYDC through the funding application process
- Excellent research, writing, and verbal communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work independently as well as within a team
- Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative, manage a variety of tasks and see projects through to completion
- Prior experience with the juvenile and criminal legal system preferred but not required
- Commitment to advancing the mission of CYDC
- Commitment to embed the principles of equity, inclusion and belonging in your work by demonstrating commitment to inclusive workplaces with an approach that respects and values multiple perspectives
The California Youth Defender Center invites rising third-year law students and recent law graduates to apply for a sponsorship opportunity to work with us as a Legal Fellow for up to one/two year(s). We seek applicants to consider us for a sponsored fellowship such as Equal Justice Work, Skadden, Soros or other public interest fellowships to begin in the fall of 2026. This is a remote role which requires some in person meetings, convenings, and travel around California.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- J.D. or expected to receive a J.D. by the spring of 2026
- Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, youth justice, and racial justice
- Willingness to work closely with CYDC through the funding application process
- Excellent research, writing, and verbal communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work independently as well as within a team
- Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative, manage a variety of tasks and see projects…
Location
Associated Location
How to Apply
Our staff will work with candidates to develop their proposals to external funders for submission, helping tailor the proposal to address a pressing legal need for youth involved in the justice system in California. Proposed projects often combine training and policy advocacy, with community outreach and public education. Please submit a resume, cover letter and writing sample, and tailor your cover letters to explain why you’re interested in working with CYDC, and any specific area (s) of interest you have. Please send applications to Em Steen, CYDC Operations Manager, at em@cayouthdefenders.org. We will review applications on a rolling basis, but priority consideration will be given to those who submit applications by July 3, 2025.
We will then interview and select a candidate to move forward with the fellowship application process. Employment is contingent upon the candidate receiving a fellowship. Compensation may vary depending on the particular fellowship secured by the applicant.
Our staff will work with candidates to develop their proposals to external funders for submission, helping tailor the proposal to address a pressing legal need for youth…
