2027 Arthur D. Hellman Fellowship

Overview

FIRE (The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression) defends and sustains the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought. The Arthur D. Hellman Fellowship in First Amendment Litigation is FIRE’s premier summer opportunity for law students committed to defending free expression.

Position Details

• 10‑week paid fellowship (June 1 – August 6, 2027)
• Stipend of $8,000
• Work location: FIRE’s Philadelphia or Washington, D.C. office

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with FIRE’s First Amendment litigators on substantive projects that advance strategic litigation.
• Conduct legal research and drafting of briefs, motions, and other court filings.
• Engage in client interaction and assist with case strategy development.
• Participate in media relations and public‑interest advocacy efforts.
• Make meaningful contributions to active free‑speech cases.

Qualifications

• Rising 2L or 3L law student with excellent academic credentials.
• Demonstrated passion for civil liberties and public‑interest litigation.
• Collaborative, detail‑oriented, and deeply committed to the principles of free expression.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Benefits

• Training in essential public‑interest law practice skills, including legal research, writing, client interaction, and media relations.
• Opportunity to build a long‑term relationship with FIRE, with potential for full‑time employment, participation in the Legal Network, pro bono case work, authoring amicus briefs, or serving as local counsel.
• Induction into FIRE’s Alumni Association after successful completion of the program.

Pay

The fellowship provides an $8,000 stipend for the 10‑week period.

Schedule

Full‑time summer schedule spanning ten weeks, from June 1 to August 6, 2027.