MISSION STATEMENT: The Public Interest Law Association (PILA) seeks to leverage law as a driving force for justice, equity, and social change by building a national network of undergraduates, law students, lawyers, and legal professionals dedicated to public interest work. Through mentorship, professional development, and community engagement, we connect, educate, and support aspiring legal advocates–particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds–to pursue meaningful, justice-driven careers in law.

VISION STATEMENT: PILA is working towards a future where the law is a tool for liberation, and every legal advocate is equipped to challenge injustice and champion the public good.

At the Public Interest Law Association (PILA), we envision a future where law is a tool for liberation, and every legal advocate is equipped to challenge injustice and champion the public good. We believe that the legal professional must be shaped by diverse voices. Our mission is to empower future lawyers to advance the public good by bridging passion and opportunity.

THE PROBLEM: There is a critical gap in the support and resources available to aspiring legal professionals, especially those committed to public interest law. Despite the growing need and demand for legal advocates who prioritize justice and equity, there are currently no national organizations dedicated to fostering opportunities for aspiring legal professionals pursuing public interest law careers. This lack of community and resources prevents people interested in public interest from pursuing public interest pathways, with many turning to Big Law instead. We believe corporations already have enough advocates, and everyday people deserve lawyers on their side.

OUR SOLUTION: A NATIONAL NETWORK OF SUPPORT

In response to these challenges, PILA is committed to building a national network of undergraduates, law students, lawyers, and legal professionals dedicated to public interest work. Through mentorship, professional development, and community engagement, we connect, educate, and support aspiring legal advocates–particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds (BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ people, women, FGLI students, people with disabilities, international students)–to pursue meaningful, justice-driven careers in law.

PILA seeks to connect aspiring legal professionals with mentors, resources, and pathways into the public interest legal field. By fostering a strong network of legal professional, we help aspiring advocates explore careers in diverse areas of public interest law, such as:

• Impact litigation

• Government roles

• Civil rights law firms

• Nonprofit organizations

• Academia