Legal Fellow (Spring 2027)

The Wikimedia Foundation is seeking a Legal Fellow for Spring 2027 to join its Legal Department. This remote position offers current law students or recent graduates an immersive in-house experience focused on Internet law and free knowledge organizations. The fellowship spans 18 weeks, providing an opportunity to engage with a diverse range of legal issues within a nonprofit setting.

As a Legal Fellow, you will undertake projects tailored to your interests and strengths, including researching legal questions, drafting licensing agreements, and developing internal and external policies. You will work closely with a supervising attorney, participating in meetings, collaborating on projects, and receiving feedback to enhance your practical legal skills in a web-based company environment. The program may also coordinate with your university to facilitate academic credits or funding for your time at the Foundation.

Ideal candidates are current law students or recent graduates with a strong commitment to the Wikimedia Foundation's mission of free knowledge. Preferred qualifications include coursework or experience in Internet law, freedom of expression, intellectual property, contract drafting, international law, privacy, data security, or licensing. Experience with large online user communities, wikis, or Wikimedia projects is advantageous. Excellent writing skills and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts to a broad audience are essential.

The fellowship offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $37.42 to $45.60, adjusted for location. The Wikimedia Foundation is a remote-first organization with staff members in over 40 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Foundation is committed to providing equal opportunities and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Joining the Wikimedia Foundation as a Legal Fellow provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a global mission while gaining valuable in-house legal experience. The collaborative and transparent environment offers exposure to a wide array of legal issues, making it an excellent platform for professional growth and development.