​Attorney General of Maryland ​Anthony G. Brown

Thurgood Marshall Clerkship Program

Clerkship program OAG staff group photo ​
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​​​​​​​The application submission window for the 2026 Thurgood Marshall Clerkship Program is open.
The Thurgood Marshall Clerkship Program is a collaborative initiative between the Maryland Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and local law firms. Its mission is to attract talented law students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in the legal profession, fostering diversity and leadership within public service.​


About the Office of the Attorney General (OAG)

​As the largest law firm in Maryland, OAG boasts a team of 600 attorneys who serve as legal advisors and litigators for the state's agencies, boards, commissions, officials, and institutions. The office's work encompasses:​

  • ​Advising the Maryland Legislature on the constitutionality of proposed legislation.

  • ​​​Representing state agencies and officials in both state and federal courts, including the Maryland Court of Appeals, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court​.

  • Protecting the Chesapeake Bay against polluters.

  • Safeguarding Maryland families from violence and unscrupulous business practices.​​


OAG is committed to serving the citizens of Maryland with integrity and excellence.

Program Overview​

​​We name our program after Thurgood Marshall, a native son of Maryland, who served as the first African-American member of the U.S. Supreme Court (1957-1991). Earlier in his career, Marshall served as a lawyer for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and helped win the 1954 landmark desegregation case, Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. Throughout his life, Marshall used the law to promote civil rights and social justice.

​Each year, the Thurgood Marshall Clerkship Program offers first and second-year law students a 10-week summer clerkship at the OAG's downtown Baltimore office. This immersive experience provides clerks with:

  • Exposure to the practice of law in the public sector.​
  • ​Insights into the rewards and challenges of public service.​
  • Opportunities to work closely with experienced attorneys on a variety of legal matters.​
Program Overview

FAQ

Application Process

Prospective applicants are required to submit:​

  • A completed application form.
  • A current resume.
  • Law school transcript.
  • Responses to essay prompts are provided in the Program Application.

Additional consideration is given to candidates who:​

  • Are first-generation law students.
  • Have been Pell Grant recipients.
  • Possess a unique personal history.
  • Have demonstrated service to others.
  • Have overcome significant obstacles.
  • Exhibit leadership experience.
  • Have notable extracurricular activities, honors, and awards.
  • Have unique educational or familial circumstances.

Semifinalists will be invited for an interview before final selections are made. Each selected student will receive a stipend of no less than $8,000 for the summer clerkship.

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion Equal Opportunity Employer

The Office of the Attorney General is an equal opportunity employer that encourages all interested persons to apply, regardless of race, color, religion or belief, ancestry, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, pregnancy, family or parental status, veteran status, genetic information, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The OAG views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as essential to achieving professional excellence and fostering a culture where every employee can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the best pool of talent, embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

Contact Information

For questions regarding the application process, please contact: [email protected]​.