The current extended placements at legal aid organizations are driven largely by response to the current economic conditions. However, even before the economic crisis, some firms and communities regularly planned and participated in similar models of deferrals and rotations, but on a smaller and shorter term scale.

In addition to PILI's own Internship and Fellowship Programs, PILI assisted Katten Muchin Rosenman and Jones Day with the development of their fellowship programs.  With firms now introducing or expanding the fellowship model, PILI will serve in a “brokering function” between public interest law organizations and law firms regarding these various extended placement pro bono commitments; there are many similarities to the existing summer PILI Fellowship Program and these new extended placement models. 

As the economy improves, we encourage law firms to consider establishing or convert the extended placement programs into standing fellowship or rotation programs.  Information about two of the first models to be introduced in Illinois is available below.

Three First-Year Associates Participate in Katten's First Year Public Service Fellowship

Jones Day Launches Pro Bono Fellowship Program

For more information about the Extended Placement Program, or for assistance with developing such a program or placements at public interest law organizations, please contact Michael Bergmann at 312-832-5129 or Susan Curry at 312-832-5128.