LEGAL EMPOWERMENT FELLOWS

Our Legal Empowerment Fellows are a cohort of twenty high school students that represent a range of schools and neighborhoods across the city.

Throughout the school year, the students participate in an a weekly workshop series at Fordham Law School. These workshops mirror the first year law school curriculum, equipping our fellows with the Same Legal Foundation As Every Attorney in the Country.

  • Courses

    Civil Procedure

    Constitutional Law

    Contracts

    Criminal Law

    Torts

    Property Law

  • Experiences

    Community Advocacy

    Fundamental Lawyering Skills

    Legal Research

    Mock Negotiations

    Public Speaking

    Social Action Projects

  • Opportunities

    Firm Visits

    Legal Empowerment Fellows

    Legal Navigators Program

    Legal Professional Mentor

    Published Projects

    Young Voter Registration

are yoU a high school student

interested in learning the law?

We encourage all NYC-area high school students to apply to our Legal Empowerment Fellowship Program, which begins in September 2025 and will continue through June 2026.

While we consider each application carefully, we give preference to students who are able to articulate the ways they have been impacted by various legal systems, and who demonstrate a willingness to commit to the full duration of the program.

Please reach us at info@defyinglegalgravity.org with any questions.

Help Us Keep the legal empowerment fellowship Free for Students!

Learning

Our Legal Empowerment Fellows receive Metrocards and free meals for the duration of the 7 month program.

Materials

Every Fellow receives materials and technology to complete all coursework, including any textbooks, notetaking devices, and other needs that may arise.

Stipends

Each of our Legal Empowerment Fellows receives an end of year stipend to reward their commitment and achievements.