Center for Animal Law Studies at Lewis & Clark Law School, is designed to support a distinguished group of law students, graduates, and practitioners dedicated to ending factory farming and advancing animal rights. The program combines academic learning, mentorship, and practical legal experience to foster a community of advocates who work toward a more compassionate world. By interning with Mercy For Animals, participants become part of a broader mission that seeks to transform industrial farming systems and enhance legal protections for animals.
Eligibility
The internship opportunity is open to members of the Law Scholars for Change program, current law students enrolled in accredited institutions, and licensed attorneys with the ability to practice law in at least one U.S. state. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to animal protection and an interest in using their legal expertise to drive systemic change. A background in animal law is not strictly required; however, applicants should possess excellent research, drafting, and analytical skills, along with the ability to manage multiple assignments effectively in a remote setting. Ideal candidates will be those who are motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to contribute to meaningful legal projects that have a direct impact on advancing animal rights.
Role of the Intern
As a legal intern under the Law Scholars for Change program at Mercy For Animals, you will be immersed in a variety of impactful legal projects that provide hands-on advocacy experience. Your responsibilities may include conducting detailed research and analysis of federal, state, and local laws; drafting memoranda and preparing presentations for both programmatic and fundraising purposes; reviewing and drafting contracts; and assisting with corporate governance and compliance-related matters. Interns will work closely with Mercy For Animals’ attorneys, receiving supervision, mentorship, and constructive feedback throughout the internship. Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend team meetings across departments—such as investigations, campaigns, policy, and organizing—giving them a broader understanding of how legal work integrates with larger advocacy efforts. The experience is designed to equip interns with practical legal skills and invaluable insights into the growing field of animal law.
How to Apply
The internship runs for 14 weeks in Fall 2025 (beginning approximately October 13, 2025) and another 14 weeks in Spring 2026. Interns are expected to commit 12 to 15 hours per week and will be compensated at a rate of $20 per hour, funded by a grant from Law Scholars for Change. This opportunity is fully remote, with interns expected to meet virtually at least once per week with their supervising attorney and to participate in legal team meetings. The application process opens on August 25, 2025 and closes on September 8, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in September, and final selections will be made by the third week of the month. Interested applicants should prepare a professional application package in line with Mercy For Animals’ guidelines. Selected interns will not only gain legal experience but also become part of the broader Law Scholars for Change network, with access to mentorship, community-building events, and long-term professional support.View this job posting on LinkedIn
