Spring 2027 Legal Externship – International Program

Earthjustice is the nation's leading environmental law organization. We wield the power of law and the strength of partnership to protect people’s health, preserve magnificent places and wildlife, advance clean energy, and combat climate change. We are here because the Earth needs a good lawyer. Driven by a passion for justice, inclusion, partnership, and excellence, our core values lead us to seek a broad range of perspectives and backgrounds to achieve our mission and maintain an inclusive environment where all staff are valued and respected.

Earthjustice’s International Program is accepting applications for one part-time legal extern for spring 2027. We are seeking law students who share a passion for justice and a healthy environment, and who are eligible to receive academic credit or fulfill a graduation requirement through this externship. The successful candidate may work remotely within the U.S. or on a hybrid schedule from our San Francisco, CA office.

Since 1991, our International Program has been partnering with organizations and communities around the world to establish, strengthen, and enforce national and international legal protections for the environment and human health. We work with partners in South Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Latin America, and elsewhere. Together with our partners, we use strategic legal advocacy to reduce dependence on dirty fossil fuels and to develop regulatory frameworks for, and remove obstacles to, the accelerated deployment of clean energy.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on U.S., international, and foreign laws, policies, and case studies in the environmental and energy context.
• Conduct factual and/or scientific research.
• Assist in the preparation of memorandums or briefs, including by checking citations.
• Draft public communications such as press-releases or blog posts.
• Research and develop human rights strategies.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in law school as a 2L or 3L during spring 2027.
• Must be eligible to receive academic credit or fulfill a graduation requirement through this externship.
• Excellent writing, research, analytical and organizational skills.
• Familiarity with legal research tools, including Westlaw.
• Strong work ethic, initiative, and ability to think creatively.
• Ability to work collegially with others and independently.
• Knowledge of environmental and administrative law is a plus.
• Interest in public interest law and social justice.
• Must commit to at least 15 hours/week.

Compensation

Legal externs are unpaid and must receive academic credit or fulfill a graduation requirement for their work with Earthjustice.