The Ackerman Fellowship Program

A Summer of Public Interest Legal Experience

For more than 20 years, Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services has welcomed rising second- and third-year law students to Charleston through the Ackerman Fellowship Program. Made possible by the generous support of the Bill Jennie and Harry Ackerman Foundation, this paid summer fellowship provides an immersive introduction to public interest law and gives fellows the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of low-income individuals and families.

Whether you plan to pursue public interest, private practice, government service, or litigation, the Ackerman Fellowship offers practical legal experience, close mentorship, and client interaction that will prepare you for your legal career.

What You'll Do

Ackerman Fellows work alongside our attorneys on real cases from day one. Fellows are active members of our legal team and gain experience in multiple areas of civil law, including:

Family law
Housing and landlord-tenant law
Estate planning and probate
Victims' rights
Expungements
Community legal clinics and outreach

Throughout the summer, fellows have opportunities to:

Interview clients and assist with case intake
Draft pleadings and other legal documents
Conduct legal research
Observe court proceedings and attorney-client meetings
Participate in legal clinics and community outreach events
Receive mentorship from experienced public interest attorneys

Why Choose the Ackerman Fellowship?

Unlike many summer internships, the Ackerman Fellowship emphasizes hands-on learning. Fellows work directly with clients, gain practical courtroom exposure, and develop the skills needed to become compassionate, effective advocates.

Many former Ackerman Fellows have gone on to careers in public interest law, private practice, judicial clerkships, government service, and nonprofit leadership.