In an unprecedented move, the prestigious law firm Davis Polk has announced a new initiative that offers a $25,000 stipend to first-year law students who choose to dedicate their summer to pro bono work. This program is designed for students who accept full-time positions with Davis Polk’s 2027 summer class and spend their preceding summer in legal internships serving non-profit, government, or academic institutions.

The initiative comes as a refreshing commitment from a Biglaw firm to support pro bono efforts, particularly when recent federal policies have been criticized for discouraging legal work in underserved communities. With this program, Davis Polk not only positions itself as a pioneer in Biglaw community engagement but also provides a substantial financial incentive that enables students to manage their educational expenses while contributing positively to society.

Students will have the flexibility to choose their internship placements from a list pre-approved by Davis Polk or propose other entities that align with the firm’s criteria for community service. This approach not only broadens the scope of opportunities available to students but also encourages them to engage with causes they are passionate about, fostering a more personal and impactful summer experience.

The announcement of this stipend is timely, as it addresses the financial dilemmas many young law students face — balancing the need to earn money with a desire to perform meaningful public service. By providing a significant stipend, Davis Polk ensures that students do not have to sacrifice their financial well-being to engage in valuable community service.

Applications for this innovative program are currently open, welcoming a new wave of law students eager to make a difference while also advancing their careers. This dual-benefit system could set a new standard in legal education and early career development, potentially inspiring other firms to implement similar initiatives.

For more details on the program and application processes, interested candidates can visit Davis Polk's official website or consult the recent coverage on Law.com. This initiative not only promises to enrich the professional lives of future lawyers but also to advance the legal profession's role in societal betterment.

Davis Polk's initiative marks a significant milestone in Biglaw's engagement with public service, representing perhaps the most substantial support mechanism for pro bono work since the adjustments to the Skadden Fellowship program. As the legal community continues to evolve, the firm's commitment to both fostering new legal talent and supporting underserved communities stands out as a commendable model of corporate responsibility and legal education.