The 2026 program
The 2026 program will run from August to November, and includes:
- A full-day orientation
- 6 virtual live sessions, each running between 60 and 90 minutes
- A virtual convening over two days with speaker presentations, networking opportunities with sector leaders, and opportunities to practice affirmative litigation skills
- Access to PRP U — a learning platform with digital content and resources, and additional Public Rights Project trainings and events
- Alumni access to Public Rights Project’s network of public impact litigators and discounts on future trainings and professional development opportunities after fellowship completion
- Optional well-being coaching
Sessions may include advance reading, small group work, and follow-up prompts on the learning platform. Fellows should expect an average monthly time commitment of four to six hours.
Example session topics include:
- Selecting tools and targets
- Building your appellate case
- Managing projects
- Influencing stakeholders and building partnerships
- Making your pitch
Eligibility
The fellowship is best suited for mid-career government attorneys who want to strengthen their leadership capacity and advance to the next stage of their careers.
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must:
- be a practicing attorney with at least two years of litigation experience;
- be a current employee of a state, local, or tribal government law office; and
- have an active bar membership in the jurisdiction where their office is located.
Please contact us for more information if you would like to participate but do not meet these requirements.
While interest in affirmative litigation will enhance the fellowship experience, it is not a requirement to participate. We select candidates with a wide range of experience and with diverse backgrounds. Participants may range from skilled prosecutors or general counsel seeking to transition to civil litigation to experienced civil litigators transitioning to plaintiff-focused work or moving into government for the first time from the private or nonprofit sectors.
Fellows must remain employed by and stationed at their offices throughout the duration of the fellowship.
Program fees and scholarships
Early bird program fee: $1,000 ($950 discount — ends May 29)
Standard program fee: $1,950
We also offer full scholarships and a sliding scale option. If you require financial assistance, please indicate this need on the program application.
We encourage you to submit an application regardless of your ability to pay. Please get in touch for more information if you have funding concerns or questions.
How to apply
Applicants must submit a resume, three short essay responses, and a letter of support from their employer.
Download an employer letter of support template
Applications for the 2026 cohort will open on April 29, 2026. The early bird deadline is May 29, 2026. The deadline for all applications is June 11, 2026. If you are interested in being notified when applications open in 2026, please fill out our interest form.
