Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship

Supporting the professional development of young attorneys while increasing access to justice for those who need it most.

The Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship Program was developed by the Board of Directors to respond to the increasing demand for civil legal aid and a desire to foster professional opportunities for emerging new attorneys in Illinois. Each year, the Illinois Bar Foundation and participating law schools share the cost of each Fellowship which provides for the salary and benefits of a recent alum to work as a staff attorney at their alma mater’s legal aid clinic.

The Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship Program is currently paused as we evaluate the program and consider changes that may be needed in order to adapt to the changing legal landscape as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the evolving needs of law schools.

The purpose of the Fellowships is to:

• Increase access to civil legal aid for low-income Illinois residents by providing effective legal services by qualified lawyers.
• Help new attorneys develop practical legal skills and hone interpersonal, professional and business skills in order to enhance their prospects of employment at the conclusion of the Fellowship.
• To instill in young attorneys a spirit of public interest law so that they can continue their service of low-income clients throughout their career.