Overview
Term of Employment: Fall 2027–2029
Union: Bargaining Unit Position, Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU)
Reports To: Senior Staff Attorney
Location: Remote (U.S.-based)
This fellowship is part of a Litigation Program that files strategic, high-impact lawsuits to protect animals from harm. Fellows are responsible for the day-to-day management of assigned cases and projects, including ensuring timely completion of required research, filings, and other litigation tasks. The role also supports the development of new cases.
Responsibilities
- Act as counsel under the supervision of a Staff Attorney, Senior Staff Attorney, or Managing Attorney and handle research, filings, and other litigation-related work for assigned cases and projects.
- Potentially act as lead counsel where appropriate during the second year of the fellowship.
- Develop litigation skills by participating in motions practice, filings, appearances, and arguments as appropriate.
- Research and develop novel legal theories, strategies, and fact patterns for new cases.
- Manage Law Clerks as assigned.
- Draft, edit, and submit amicus curiae briefs on behalf of the organization.
- Coordinate with Communications and other departments to answer questions on civil legal issues and procedures, and to draft, proof, and/or edit content on cases and legal developments.
- Coordinate with other programs as needed, including areas that may include both civil and criminal components, as well as legislative, animal law, and pro bono efforts.
- Manage pro bono and local counsel on cases with external counsel.
- Prepare and deliver presentations for professional conferences, fundraising events, and other needs.
- Provide in-house expertise to staff on questions concerning Litigation Program cases, animal law civil cases in general, and legal strategy.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the Litigation Program and organizational strategic objectives and mission.
Requirements
- Graduated from law school within three years of the fellowship start date (estimated Fall of 2027), or seeking to move from an unrelated legal practice into animal protection work.
- A Juris Doctorate degree at the start of the fellowship and admission to practice law in the state where you will reside during your fellowship (or awaiting bar results on the start date of your fellowship).
- Understanding of and commitment to the organization’s vision, mission, and core values.
- Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills; ability to communicate effectively with members, supporters, coworkers, and other counsel.
- A positive attitude and ability to work cooperatively in a team-oriented environment.
- Ability to travel as needed to fulfill litigation obligations and to attend professional conferences, meetings, or other events.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary:
- $71,509 annually for most geographic locations.
- $75,273 annually for candidates located within 25 miles of Washington D.C., Cotati, CA, and Los Angeles.
- $79,036 annually for candidates located within 25 miles of New York City and San Francisco.
Salary equity note: salary is not negotiated outside the published rate; the rate is determined by role using set geographical factors.
Benefits include:
- Comprehensive health care, dental, life, and vision benefits (100% employer paid); Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Account (DCA) available.
- 192 hours of PTO.
- 19 paid holidays.
- 1-month paid sabbatical after 5 years of continuous employment.
- 16 weeks paid parental leave.
- 401k plan with a maximum 5% employer contribution match after one year of employment.
- Alternative work schedules (at manager’s discretion).
- One-time remote work allowance of $750.
- Annual professional development reimbursement of up to $1,000.
Location
Remote (U.S.-based)
Additional Information
- This role is included in a collective bargaining unit represented by the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU). Certain terms and conditions, including wages and benefits, are included in a collective bargaining agreement between the organization and the Union.
- U.S.-based position. All hired candidates must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
- Equal opportunity employer committed to a welcoming work environment free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.
Term / Application Notes
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities; responsibilities may change to advance the organization’s strategic objectives and mission.
Application deadline: October 25, 2026.
Application materials requested:
- Cover letter
- Résumé
- 2–3 professional references
- Original writing sample
- Transcript (unofficial acceptable)
Applicants should submit all materials as one PDF.