The Upper Midwest Law Center (UMLC) is accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Law Clerk Fellowship, a paid public-interest legal opportunity for motivated law students interested in constitutional law, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
About Upper Midwest Law Center
UMLC is a nonprofit public-interest law firm based in the greater Minneapolis area. The firm litigates cases that defend individual liberty, constitutional limits on government power, and the rule of law. UMLC has successfully challenged police defunding efforts in Minneapolis, unconstitutional COVID-era restrictions on houses of worship, improper election administration practices, and viewpoint discrimination in public schools, among other cases.
Fellowship Overview
This approximately 10-week summer fellowship offers hands-on litigation experience in a fast-paced public-interest law environment. The selected law clerk will work closely with UMLC attorneys on active cases and legal research projects.
Responsibilities
The Summer Law Clerk will:
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Draft legal briefs, pleadings, and memoranda
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Conduct legal research and analysis
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Assist with discovery and case preparation
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Support senior attorneys on litigation and firm matters
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Research legal issues for potential op-eds and law review submissions
As part of the application, candidates are encouraged to identify the legal issues they are most interested in impacting.
Compensation
The fellowship includes a competitive hourly or monthly stipend, determined at the time of offer based on circumstances, including the availability of outside funding.
Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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JD candidate, Class of 2027 or 2028 (current 1L or 2L students)
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Strong legal writing, research, and communication skills
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Excellent attention to detail and organizational ability
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Interest in public-interest litigation and constitutional law
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Ability to work independently and collaboratively
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U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident
Preference will be given to candidates willing to reside in or temporarily relocate to the Minneapolis area for a hybrid schedule, though fully remote arrangements will be considered.
Application Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials to [email protected] no later than January 30, 2026:
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Resume
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Personal statement (300–500 words) explaining your interest in public-interest law and UMLC
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Short legal writing sample
Interviews: January 26 – February 3, 2026
Decisions announced: February 5, 2026
For more information about UMLC’s work, visit umlc.org.
