Cleary Gottlieb was the first law firm to provide public interest externships, a commitment that we've continued for the past four decades. Each year, we sponsor externship programs at two leading New York legal service organizations:
- MFY Legal Services, Inc. is a national leader in poverty law. It has served tens of thousands of low-income New Yorkers since its start in a Lower East storefront in 1963. It provides advice and representation on matters that range from civil rights and employment to public benefits. Cleary Gottlieb externs generally work in MFY's housing department and represent indigent New Yorkers in housing court.
- Lawyers Alliance for New York (LANY): Started in 1969, LANY is New York City's largest provider of business law services to the not-for-profit community. It serves thousands of clients each year, advising them on matters from corporate structure and governance to tax law. Cleary Gottlieb associates, who have participated in LANY EXTERNSHIPS for more than 20 years, gain a first-hand experience in the world of not-for-profit law.