Weil Legal Innovators (WLI) Program 2026-2027 (Funded)

Get latest opportunities sent your Inbox

---

Join our Telegram Channel Follow us on WhatsApp

About WLI Program

The Weil Legal Innovators (WLI) Program empowers future lawyers to take on today’s most pressing social and legal challenges before they even begin law school. Each year, ten incoming law students from our partner schools defer their f irst year of study to spend a full year working at a leading nonprofit organization through a paid public service fellowship. During their fellowship, Innovators drive forward strategic initiatives that promote social justice, expand access to legal resources, and strengthen communities – applying their passion for service and sharpening their skills, all while helping nonprofits deepen their impact.

• Sponsor Organisation: Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Benefits of WLI Program

• $60,000 salary for the fellowship year, plus access to health benefits (inclusive of medical, vision and dental) from their nonprofit employer.
• A $10,000 law school scholarship applicable for law school tuition and required expenses.
• All-expenses-paid trip to New York City for the program’s three-day conference at the start and end of the fellowship year, featuring training, networking, and celebratory events with fellow Innovators, alumni and Weil attorneys and staff.
• An opportunity to work at and learn from a leading national or international public service organization.
• Direct mentorship opportunities with attorneys and professional staff at various levels.
• A guaranteed opportunity to interview for the Weil Summer Associate Program with dedicated guidance and support from the WLI network.
• Professional development trainings from leading instructors in the academic, for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
• A lifelong WLI alumni network, with opportunities to stay engaged through year-round virtual and in-person events and to mentor current Innovators through the WLI Bridge Program.

WLI Program Requirements

• All students who have been accepted to J.D program at one of the WLI law school partners are eligible to apply.

• Eligibility is open to students with prior professional experience, as well as to students applying directly to law school from an undergraduate institution

• Eligibility is subject to confirmation that the applicant can attend orientation during the WLI Conference in New York City from July 13-15, 2026 (travel expenses and hotel accomdations will be covered by Weil)

Application Date and Process

• Click on the link to the application website to apply.

Application Deadline

16 March, 2026

Opportunity Application

View details of WLI Program

Apply for WLI Program