Working for Social Justice
Since the establishment of the Francis D. Murnaghan, Jr. Fellowship in 2001, our fellows have briefed and argued hundreds of cases, giving voice to the underrepresented in federal and state appellate courts. Fellows come from around the country, bringing with them a deep commitment to practicing law in the public interest. Through their work, they are able to raise issues of profound importance to people and communities affected by poverty and discrimination.
Our Accomplishments
Murnaghan Fellows have advanced the reform of the criminal justice system; ensured redress for housing and employment discrimination, wage theft, and abusive debt collection practices; expanded access to counsel; protected the rights of immigrants and parents with disabilities; and more for more than 20 years.
Baltimore Roots, National Impact
Each fellow joins the staff of the Public Justice Center (PJC) in Baltimore, a nonprofit legal advocacy organization that focuses on systemic change for people who live in poverty and face racial injustice and structural inequities. During a one-year term within the PJC's Appellate Advocacy Project, the Fellow authors briefs and presents arguments in high-impact cases in the appellate courts, with local, statewide, and national implications.