The Gideon’s Promise Law School Partnership Program (LSPP) helps law schools support graduating students pursuing careers in public defense by pairing school-funded fellowships with placements in partner public defender offices nationwide. Fellows also participate in Gideon’s Promise CORE 101, our nationally recognized three-year training and mentorship program that equips new defenders with practical skills, client-centered values, and a strong professional community. More information can be found on the LSPP webpage and in the attached FAQ sheet.
Starting at the end of March, Gideon’s Promise will be hosting virtual information sessions on Zoom for law students to learn about the LSPP and how the LSPP can be the foundation of a career in public defense. If you are interested in attending one of these sessions, please see the attached is a flyer with a registration link. The Zoom sessions will be held on the following dates and times:
March 31 @ 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET
April 2 @ 7:00-8:00 p.m. ET
April 8 @ 1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
April 10 @ 12:00-1:00 p.m. ET
Please note: The attached information, as well as the information on the website and provided during these trainings, is intended for students from all participating law schools. Each law school has a different process for determining which student(s) can apply for the fellowship. NYU Law will select one rising 3L to apply for the 2026-2027 LSPP Fellowship. The law school’s application process will take place in August, giving the selected candidate ample time to submit a full application to Gideon’s Promise before the October 2nd deadline. You will be able to find more information about how to apply to be NYU’s candidate for the Gideon’s Promise Fellowship in the Docket in July. If you have any questions in the meantime, please email Emily Kernan at emily.kernan@nyu.edu.