PETA's Legal Clerkship Program

PETA's summer and semester clerkship programs are designed to put participants in touch with the inner workings of the animal rights movement and the way that PETA operates on a daily basis. Law clerks work in PETA's Norfolk, Virginia, headquarters in the Legal and Corporate Affairs Department, where they gain exposure to many different aspects of animal rights law and have the opportunity to develop legal skills in a team-oriented, fast-paced, hands-on environment. Clerks can expect to do legal research and writing on issues for litigation and/or other advocacy. Research may include administrative law issues, constitutional law issues, federal and state animal welfare statutes and regulations, and international, federal, and state wildlife statutes and regulations.

Compensation

All applicants are encouraged to seek funding through federal work-study funds, fellowships, or similar programs. There is a $75 per week stipend, and if desired, PETA will provide housing. Clerks and interns live at the Gordon House, located about a mile and a half from PETA headquarters in the heart of Ghent—Norfolk's trendy, historic neighborhood. The house accommodates up to 13 people and has eight bedrooms, three bathrooms, two kitchens, and a washer and dryer. Restaurants, coffee shops, supermarkets, boutiques, a park, and an art house theater are within walking distance. Lunch is provided during the work week.

How to Apply

To apply for a clerkship, please send a résumé, a transcript, a legal writing sample, and a list of references to the address indicated below. In addition, please include a two-page, double-spaced essay in which you discuss your interest and experience in animal rights law, the skills you would bring to PETA, and what you hope to gain through your clerkship. Applications for the summer clerkship should be postmarked by February 1. Applications for clerkships are also accepted, as received, for scheduling during the school year. Please contact PETA for additional information about these positions. PETA strongly encourages applications from persons of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. Send applications for clerkships to:

Lori E. Kettler, Senior Counsel
Legal and Corporate Affairs Department
PETA
501 Front St.
Norfolk, VA 23510

For general information about clerking/interning at PETA, see the Frequently Asked Questions.