What host organizations must provide for Equal Justice Works fellows

Equal Justice Works outlined specific host‑organization requirements for Design Your Own fellows during its webinar. Lauren Hartley said a host must be a U.S.-based nonprofit with legal staff, generally organized as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4), must be able to provide benefits (including health insurance) that mirror those offered to similarly situated attorneys, and must supervise and support the fellow with at least two legal‑services attorneys on staff so there is a supervisor and a backup.

Hartley explained that hosts are the fellows’ employers and must provide day‑to‑day supervision, office space and standard employee benefits. She said hosts receive a supporting payment paid in quarterly installments that may be used toward salary and benefits and that supervisors contribute to reports at approximately the six‑month, one‑year and two‑year marks of the fellowship term. “The host organization is the fellow's employer,” Hartley said, describing the employer‑employee relationship and supervisory expectations.

The presenters recommended that host organizations assemble an internal review team — proposed supervisor, relevant leadership and pro bono or career‑service staff — to complete application sections and to set expectations with candidates early. Hartley also recommended describing how the project aligns with the host’s mission and what sustainability or legacy the two‑year project would leave behind (for example, trainings, clinics or handbooks).