Financing A Public Interest Career
It is true that public interest lawyers make less than their colleagues in the private sector. It is possible, however, to live comfortably and make it affordable. Further, many public interest lawyers maintain high job satisfaction due to meaningful, challenging work that makes a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable among us. Many also have a more reasonable work-life balance than their private sector counterparts.
Starting salaries for public interest lawyers range from the mid-$30,000’s to the mid-$50,000’s and there are pay raises and opportunities for advancement as you progress in your career. Also, the benefits, especially for government lawyers, often exceed those in the private sector.
Fellowships and Summer Funding
Learn about the different ways to finance your public interest position, both during law school and after graduation. Many nonprofits, legal aid offices and some government offices are running on shoestring budgets, so you may need to apply for a summer or post-graduate fellowship to get paid for the job of your dreams!
Loan Repayment Assistance Programs
Loan Repayment Assistance offered by UST School of Law and the State of Minnesota may also be available to you:
Public Interest Perspectives | |
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Nathaniel Dahl, Class of 2009 Recipient of MJF Clerkship for Summer 2007 |
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Public Interest Work: Anishinabe Legal Services "Working with Anishinabe Legal Services has been an invaluable and exciting experience for me. While I've always been committed to public service, I don't think I fully realized just how important the work is until I began working at Anishinabe. People come to us for assistance in matters such as domestic violence, child custody, employment, veteran's benefits, and other issues that have dramatic effects on individuals and communities. I have gained a great sense of pride in doing good work and helping people who would otherwise lack access to justice. Doing this work, whether I am writing a motion or arranging settlements, brings a sense of fulfillment that I haven't had before." | |
