The ACLU-D.C. Dunn Legal Fellowship 2026 is a highly regarded opportunity for aspiring legal professionals who are passionate about civil liberties and public interest law. Hosted by the American Civil Liberties Union of the District of Columbia, this full-time fellowship empowers law students and recent graduates to become legal advocates for social justice.
Starting in Fall 2026, the fellowship runs for one to two years (two preferred), offering immersive experience in civil rights litigation, policy advocacy, and public education. With a salary of $70,000 and comprehensive benefits, the Dunn Fellowship is ideal for those ready to step into impactful legal work early in their careers.
- Country: United States
- Institution: ACLU of the District of Columbia
- Location: Washington, D.C.
Unlike traditional legal roles, the Dunn Fellowship places fellows at the frontline of high-impact litigation and civil rights policy reform. From courtroom arguments to legislative advocacy, fellows engage in the full spectrum of legal activism alongside seasoned attorneys, shaping policies that directly affect the lives of D.C. residents.
Benefits of the ACLU-D.C. Dunn Legal Fellowship
Fellows will receive:
- Annual Salary: $70,000
- Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance: Fully employer-paid
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) with partial employer match
- Tuition Repayment Assistance
- Union Representation: Staff bargaining unit member
Professional Perks
- Work closely with civil rights leaders
- Argue motions, take depositions, and develop your own cases
- Gain media and public speaking experience
- Contribute directly to landmark litigation and public policy
Eligibility Criteria for the Dunn Fellowship
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold a J.D. by Fall 2026
- Be a member of the D.C. Bar or eligible to join
- Demonstrate strong research, writing, and analytical skills
- Show commitment to civil rights and public interest law
- Have completed at least one clinical, externship, or summer internship in U.S.-based litigation
Open to:
- Domestic and international applicants, provided they can work in the U.S.
Desired Qualities:
- Initiative and ownership over work
- Collaborative and empathetic mindset
- Experience or interest in systemic civil rights issues
Required Documents for Dunn Fellowship Application
Applicants must submit:
- Resume
- Cover Letter explaining motivation and qualifications
- List of Three References, each with a short note on their connection to the applicant
- Law School Transcript or course list
- Legal Writing Sample (e.g., memo or brief; unedited by others)
Format:
- Online submission via ACLU-D.C. careers portal
- If accommodations are needed, contact hr@acludc.org
Application Timeline for Fall 2026 Fellowship
- Application Deadline: July 28, 2025
- Application Review: Rolling basis (early submission highly encouraged)
- Fellowship Start Date: Fall 2026 (exact month TBD)
⚠️ Tip: Submit early to increase your chances of being reviewed before final selections.
How to Apply for the ACLU-D.C. Dunn Fellowship
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Required Documents
- Ensure your writing sample is entirely your own work
- Secure strong references (at least one attorney)
- Visit the Application Portal
- Go to www.acludc.org/careers
- Submit Your Application
- Upload your resume, cover letter, transcript/course list, references, and writing sample
- Optional: Request reasonable accommodations by emailing hr@acludc.org
Application Tips:
- Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for civil liberties
- Highlight litigation or policy experiences
- Demonstrate alignment with ACLU’s mission
FAQs – ACLU-D.C. Dunn Legal Fellowship 2026
Q1: Can international students apply?
A: Yes, but you must be eligible to work in the U.S. and seek D.C. Bar admission.
Q2: Is this a paid fellowship?
A: Yes. It includes a salary of $70,000 and full benefits.
Q3: Do I need prior litigation experience?
A: At least one clinical, externship, or litigation internship is required.
Q4: Is the writing sample supposed to be published?
A: No. It should be an original legal memo or brief written by you (not edited by others).
Q5: How long is the fellowship?
A: One to two years (two years preferred).
Final Thoughts on the Dunn Legal Fellowship
The ACLU-D.C. Dunn Fellowship 2026 offers unmatched experience for early-career attorneys aiming to make a tangible difference in civil rights law. If you’re ready to step into the courtroom and the community with purpose and passion, this fellowship could be your launchpad into a lifelong career of impact.
✨ Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to advocate for justice in Washington, D.C.