The $50K Public Interest Stipend Explained

Several BigLaw firms offer programs where incoming associates can receive a substantial stipend, sometimes $50,000 or more, to do public interest work instead of starting at the firm immediately. These programs are genuinely generous and can be a life-changing opportunity if you qualify.

How the programs work

The typical structure is:

• You receive a BigLaw offer and accept it
• Before your start date, you apply for the firm's public interest fellowship or deferral program
• If selected, you spend 6-12 months working at a qualifying public interest organization
• The firm pays you a stipend during this period (usually $5,000-$10,000 per month)
• You start at the firm after the fellowship ends

Some firms offer these as standing programs. Others create them during economic downturns when they want to defer start dates anyway.

Which firms offer them

Programs vary year by year, but firms that have historically offered public interest stipends include Skadden (through the Skadden Fellowship, which is a different and more prestigious program), Paul Weiss, and several others. The availability depends on market conditions and firm-specific policies.

Who qualifies

Most programs are open to incoming associates who have already accepted an offer. Selection is competitive and typically requires:

• A demonstrated commitment to public interest work
• A specific plan for where you will work and what you will do
• Strong performance during your summer associate program

Is it worth it?

For associates who care about public interest work, absolutely. You get to do meaningful work, build different skills, and start your BigLaw career with a broader perspective. The stipend covers basic living expenses, and you are still guaranteed your BigLaw position at the end.

The downside is that you start your associate career later than your peers, which can affect your position within your class year at some firms. Confirm how the firm handles class year assignments for deferred associates.

Research which firms support public interest through their associate programs on the firm directory.