The Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism is committed to equal access to justice in the legal community. As part of our ongoing commitment to address equal access to legal services and participation in the legal profession experienced by underserved communities in North Carolina, we are proud to host the Legal Oasis Fellowship.

The Fellowship provides a unique, competitive opportunity for law students who desire to work in an underserved area in North Carolina upon graduation. Fellows participate in a paid summer program providing an opportunity to gain practical legal experience in an underserved community. The Fellowship connects law students with the courthouse personnel and the local practicing bar of that community by providing professional experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to serve their neighbors through public service.

The Legal Oasis Fellowship seeks applications from law students who are interested in practicing in underserved areas in North Carolina.

Fellowship Highlights

• Participation in an up to 10-week summer program with an employer host.
• The program emphasizes mentorship, professional responsibility, and service-oriented legal practice in a local North Carolina community. Internships are designed to both support host communities and provide interns with meaningful exposure to a broad range of subject areas.
• The Fellowship aims to place fellows within their preferred geographic area or subject matter of interest. Hosts have included private firms, local courthouse officials such as a local judge, or a legal services organization.
• The Fellow will receive a stipend of $5,000 for 10 weeks of service, prorated for less than 10 weeks. If housing is needed, the local host employer may help arrange housing.

Application - Closing on April 1, 2026.

• Submit the application with your resume and answer three short essay questions (500 words or less).