Here’s some thrilling news that will make law students and fresh JD grads from around the globe sit up straight: The ACLU of the District of Columbia (ACLU-D.C.) is officially accepting applications for the Dunn Fellowship – Fall 2026 intake. If you’ve got a passion for civil rights, a knack for legal writing, and dreams of fighting for justice in one of the most dynamic legal landscapes in the U.S., your moment has arrived!
Why This Fellowship is a Game-Changer?
As a Dunn Fellow, you won’t just be fetching coffee or filing paperwork. You’ll join the ACLU-D.C. Legal Department as a full-time litigator, working under top-tier civil rights attorneys and diving headfirst into impactful cases. We’re talking about real legal action—challenging police misconduct, defending LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring mental health justice, tackling racial discrimination, and even standing up to controversial federal policies.
Previous fellows have led court arguments, taken depositions, crafted lawsuits, and even testified before the D.C. Council. Yes, it’s that big.
Who Can Apply?
To throw your hat in the ring, you must:
- Have earned your J.D. by Fall 2026.
- Be a member of the D.C. Bar or actively seek admission during the fellowship.
- Have hands-on experience via a clinic, externship, or legal internship in litigation.
- Show strong legal writing, research, and interpersonal skills.
- Be ready to work hard, receive feedback like a champ, and make a genuine impact.
Benefits That Go Beyond the Paycheck
The Dunn Fellowship offers a comprehensive benefits package that goes well beyond the base salary of $70,000 per year. Fellows receive employer-paid health insurance, including dental and vision coverage, ensuring peace of mind and full medical support throughout the fellowship.
In addition, the position comes with generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. Fellows are also eligible for a 401(k) retirement plan with a partial employer match, providing long-term financial security.
To ease the burden of student loans, the fellowship includes tuition repayment assistance. Importantly, fellows will also be part of a unionized legal workplace that actively values and promotes equity, inclusion, and a supportive professional environment.
Apply: https://www.acludc.org/jobs/dunn-fellowship-fall-2026/
The Dunn Fellowship at ACLU-D.C. is now open for applications, with candidate evaluations taking place on a rolling basis. However, to be considered for this prestigious opportunity, all application materials must be submitted no later than July 28, 2025.