Jacobs Law Clinic Fellow

Description:

Job Description:
Position Summary: This is a two-year, full-time fellowship position at Stetson University College of Law. This role offers recent law graduates with a license to practice law in Florida the opportunity to engage in public interest environmental law practice, focusing on environmental justice and the defense of democratic principles in the Gulf region. The fellowship is designed to prepare the fellow for a career in public interest environmental law practice in the nonprofit sector. The Fellow will work closely with the clinic director, staff attorney, and law students to provide legal services, advocate for policy reforms, and participate in impactful litigation.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities: Employment duties include, but are not limited to:

• Collaborate on active litigation and advocacy projects addressing environmental challenges.
• Engage with clients, community organizations, and stakeholders.
• Conduct in-depth legal research on issues pertaining to environmental law, access to justice, and public policy.
• Draft policy briefs, white papers, and scholarly articles to influence legislative and regulatory processes.
• Present at conferences, workshops, and public forums.
• Assist in organizing and leading educational seminars, community outreach programs, and training sessions.
• Participate in grant writing and fundraising efforts to support client and clinic initiatives.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The knowledge, skills, and abilities for this role include:

• Demonstrated commitment to the public interest, environmental protection, and the defense of democratic institutions.
• Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment and effectively mentor law students.

Required Qualifications: This position requires:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• 0-3 years of legal practice experience, preferably in environmental law, civil rights, or public interest advocacy.
• Some specialized knowledge in federal environmental law and/or administrative law
• Admission to the Florida Bar
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Lexis, Westlaw, and internet research.
• Currently reside in or willing to move to the Tampa Bay area of Florida.

Application Requirements:

• Cover letter detailing your interest in the fellowship and relevant experience.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Legal writing sample (maximum 10 pages).

Work authorization sponsorship may be available for this position. However, sponsorship is contingent upon the non-applicability of the visa petition fees outlined in the relevant Executive Order signed September 19, 2025. Due to the recent federally-mandated increased financial expense, the university is not in a position to absorb this significantly increased cost of sponsorship for new H-1B petitions at this time. International candidates are encouraged to apply, but should be aware that eligibility for sponsorship will be evaluated in accordance with current U.S. immigration regulations and institutional policies.

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