As the legal profession evolves, law schools are beginning to address an often overlooked aspect of the field: how litigation is funded. Historically, legal education has focused heavily on case law and courtroom arguments, with less emphasis on the financial mechanisms that enable these cases to proceed. However, the rising prominence of litigation finance, a sector now valued at $16 billion, is catching the attention of academia.

Recognizing the importance of understanding modern financial trends in law, Harvard Law School and other institutions have started offering courses specifically on litigation financing. This educational shift is crucial as the industry reshapes the economic landscape of legal battles.

For students eager to gain practical experience, the Certum Group offers the Litigation Finance Fellowship. Now in its third year, this program provides a hands-on, four-week immersion into the intersection of capital and complex litigation. Unlike typical internships, fellows at Certum engage directly in the analysis of case funding, scenario modeling, client development, and the creation of marketing materials. The fellowship is designed for students who have already completed initial internships, thus enriching their understanding without scheduling conflicts.

The program is led by William Marra, a seasoned expert in litigation finance and a lecturer at Penn Carey Law. Marra's involvement in both academia and industry provides fellows with a comprehensive view of the field, blending theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Certum Group, which combines litigation finance, litigation insurance, and managed services under one roof, offers fellows a unique perspective on how litigation risks are assessed and managed. According to Marra, understanding both legal doctrine and financial strategy is increasingly important for today’s lawyers, as the field of litigation finance and insurance continues to expand.

The fellowship, which can be attended in New York City or remotely, offers law and business students a substantial introduction to the financial aspects of legal work. Participants receive a $3,000 stipend, and the program selects one to three fellows based on the applicant pool.

Applications for the fellowship are due by March 31, 2026, and should include a resume, law school transcript, and a brief statement of interest. This opportunity not only bridges the gap between traditional legal education and the practical financial skills needed in modern litigation but also positions participants at the forefront of a growing industry. For law students looking to enhance their careers with cutting-edge expertise in litigation finance, the Certum Fellowship is an invaluable opportunity.