Please reach out at any time throughout the year at fellowship@caltribalfamilies.org  to connect with us about Fellowship application details. The FY 2026-2027 Fellowship application period opened in August 2025 and materials are due no later than January 31, 2026

California Tribal Families Coalition is honored to offer the San Manuel Tribal Advocacy Legal Fellowship – a post-graduation position for law students who have lived experience in tribal communities and a demonstrated interest in federal Indian law, tribal law and/or child welfare law. The Fellowship is a one-year position and will provide a competitive salary, student loan payments, extensive mentoring and training in Indian law, specifically in Indian child welfare work. Applicants must take the July California Bar Exam and commit to the one-year position beginning in or around August 1-3 years following law school graduation or another post-grad fellowship/clerkship experience.

 The CTFC team focuses on high impact work, community driven needs identification with a focus on high needs stakeholders. We are looking for engaged and driven individuals that thrive in a collaborative environment, seek mentorship and learning and enjoy creative problem-solving.

Graduates of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Law, where the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has supported Indian law instruction, will receive priority consideration. To apply, please send the following materials by the deadline:

  • Resumé
  • Cover Letter – the letter should address experience or education relevant to the position that is not reflected in the resumé, especially if there is a unique area of focus within the CTFC mission the applicant is interested in.
  • 2 Letters of Recommendation
  • Law School Transcripts
  • Writing Sample
  • Short answers to the following prompts:
    1. Please describe your interest and experience related to tribal communities.
    2. Please describe your interest and experience related to child welfare.

California Tribal Families Coalition staff will schedule virtual interviews with qualified applicants shortly after the close of applications. The Fellowship is a remote position with some travel required.