BRAC Legal Fellowship 2026: A Gateway to Practical Legal Experience

Aspiring legal professionals seeking hands-on experience in legal aid, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and case management have a significant opportunity with the BRAC Social Empowerment and Legal Protection (SELP) Programme. The Legal Fellowship 2026 offers a 12-month immersive experience, allowing participants to work closely with seasoned legal practitioners and contribute to access to justice initiatives for vulnerable communities across Bangladesh. This fellowship is designed to build practical legal skills and provide a strong foundation for a career focused on community justice and social empowerment.

About the BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship

The BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship is specifically crafted to offer young advocates direct field experience in legal empowerment, the intricacies of legal aid systems, and various dispute resolution mechanisms. Fellows will engage directly with BRAC’s established panel lawyers and legal teams, playing a role in managing cases and advancing justice at the community level. This program is an excellent stepping stone for those passionate about making a tangible difference in people’s lives through legal means.

Fellowship at a Glance

Program: BRAC Social Empowerment and Legal Protection (SELP)
Position: Legal Fellowship
Duration: 12 months
Location: Various BRAC field offices outside Dhaka, Bangladesh
Number of Openings: 20
Application Deadline: June 8, 2026

Scope of Work for Fellows

Selected fellows will undertake a 12-month contractual engagement within BRAC field offices. Their responsibilities will include gaining practical exposure to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) techniques, understanding the operational aspects of Bangladesh’s legal aid systems, and learning about effective case management processes. Fellows will collaborate closely with BRAC panel lawyers and legal professionals, receiving guidance and a detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) from the SELP program. Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded an official certificate from the SELP program. This hands-on approach ensures fellows develop a robust understanding of community justice work.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the BRAC Legal Fellowship 2026, candidates must meet specific educational and professional criteria. These requirements ensure that applicants possess a foundational understanding of law and are prepared for the practical demands of the fellowship.

Educational Background

A Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from a recognized university is mandatory. This academic qualification forms the basis for understanding legal principles and procedures.

Professional Experience

Applicants should be affiliated with a BAR Association as an advocate.
While not strictly mandatory, a minimum of one year of legal practice within an affiliated BAR is preferred. This experience can provide valuable context for the fellowship’s practical aspects.

Required Application Documents

Prospective fellows must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents to support their application. These materials are crucial for evaluating a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and suitability for the fellowship program.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting your educational background, any relevant legal experience, and accomplishments.
Referee Contact Information: Contact details for two professional referees who can attest to your skills and character.
Academic Certificates: Official copies of all your academic certificates, including your LL.B degree.
Professional Certificates: Copies of any professional certificates or bar affiliation documents.

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to gather these documents and submit their applications well before the deadline to ensure they are considered.

Benefits of Participating in the Fellowship

The BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship 2026 offers a wealth of benefits for early-career legal professionals. It serves as a critical platform for developing essential skills, expanding professional networks, and contributing to meaningful social impact.

Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in legal aid, ADR, and case management, significantly enhancing practical legal abilities.
Professional Networking: Build connections with experienced legal practitioners and professionals within BRAC’s extensive network.
Real-World Impact: Contribute directly to access to justice initiatives and support vulnerable populations, fostering social empowerment.
Career Advancement: This fellowship can serve as a pivotal stepping stone, opening doors to future opportunities in legal and development sectors.

For those passionate about legal empowerment and community justice, this fellowship provides an invaluable opportunity to shape a rewarding legal career.

About BRAC

BRAC stands as one of the world’s largest international development organizations, actively working across diverse sectors such as education, healthcare, livelihoods, gender justice, and legal empowerment. Through its dedicated Social Empowerment and Legal Protection (SELP) Programme, BRAC is committed to improving access to justice and ensuring legal protection for underserved populations throughout Bangladesh. Their work at the grassroots level aims to create a more equitable society.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BRAC Legal Fellowship 2026?

It’s a 12-month program offering practical legal experience in legal aid, alternative dispute resolution, and case management for young advocates in Bangladesh.

Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?

Candidates must have a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree and be affiliated with a BAR Association, with a preference for those with at least one year of legal practice.

What are the main responsibilities of a fellow?

Fellows will gain hands-on experience in ADR, legal aid systems, and case management, working closely with BRAC panel lawyers in field offices.

What documents are needed for the application?

You will need a CV, contact information for two referees, academic certificates (including LL.B), and professional certificates like bar affiliation documents.