Call for Applications – Apply Now for the October 2025 Legal Fellowship Opportunity at The Square Circle Clinic, NALSAR University of Law, Nagpur.
This full-time contractual position offers a unique chance for young lawyers passionate about criminal law and fair trial advocacy to work on undertrial prisoner cases as part of NALSAR’s Fair Trial Programme.
About the University/Organization
The NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, established by an Act of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1998, is one of India’s premier national law universities. Known for its academic rigor and social engagement, NALSAR promotes access to justice through a variety of public interest projects.
The Square Circle Clinic (TSCC) is a criminal justice initiative of NALSAR University of Law with offices in New Delhi, Pune, Nagpur, and Hyderabad. The Clinic works at the intersection of law, policy, and human rights, providing pro bono legal defense to prisoners on death row and undertrials.
The Clinic’s work covers a wide spectrum — from criminal defense litigation and forensic research to legal aid reform, mental health advocacy, and public engagement on punishment and criminalization. Previously operating as Project 39A at NLU Delhi, the team transitioned to NALSAR in April 2025, continuing its legacy of excellence in legal aid and justice reform.
About the Opportunity
This Legal Fellowship at The Square Circle Clinic (Fair Trial Programme) is a full-time, paid position based in Nagpur, designed for advocates committed to criminal law practice and social justice. The Fellows will work with undertrial prisoners represented by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and Legal Aid Defence Counsels (LADCs).
The Fair Trial Programme operates within Nagpur and Pune Central Prisons, aiming to strengthen access to quality legal representation and improve outcomes for undertrials. Fellows will assist in case preparation, research, court proceedings, and prison visits.
The position offers a rare opportunity to combine litigation experience with systemic reform — ideal for those seeking to develop expertise in criminal procedure, trial advocacy, and legal aid delivery.
Event Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications Opens | October 6, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 11 PM, 28th October 2025 |
| Interviews | Dates to be notified to shortlisted candidates |
| Fellowship Start Date | November 2025 |
Location and Mode
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Offline / On-site |
| City | Nagpur, Maharashtra |
| Office | The Square Circle Clinic, NALSAR University of Law, Nagpur Office |
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | One year (extendable annually based on performance and funding) |
| Type | Full-time contractual position |
| Working Hours | Regular office hours, with travel as required |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Programme Lead, Fair Trial Programme – The Square Circle Clinic |
Eligibility & Requirements
To be eligible for this Legal Fellowship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Law degree (LL.B.) from a recognized university.
- Professional Registration: Must be a registered advocate (Sanad) with a State Bar Council.
- Experience: Minimum 2 years’ experience in criminal trial practice.
- Language Proficiency:
- Must be fluent in Marathi (reading, writing, and speaking).
- Strong command of English.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in MS Office, Email, and Internet Research.
- Desirable: Prior experience with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) or Legal Aid work.
Exceptional candidates with relevant exposure may be considered even if they do not meet every requirement.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Fellows will play a crucial role in strengthening fair trial mechanisms. Responsibilities include:
- Visiting prisons and providing legal counselling to inmates in need of legal aid.
- Coordinating with the DLSA and Prison Department to ensure timely representation for undertrials.
- Assisting Legal Aid Defence Counsels (LADCs) and DLSA panel lawyers during pre-trial and trial proceedings.
- Conducting legal research, preparing briefs, and drafting legal documents.
- Regular prison visits for client interviews, evidence collection, and case updates.
- Liaising with families of undertrial prisoners and gathering relevant oral and documentary evidence.
- Assisting in the drafting of submissions, arguments, and cross-examination preparation.
- Organizing training workshops and conferences related to fair trial advocacy.
- Maintaining documentation and reporting in line with programmatic needs.
Compensation
- Stipend/Fellowship Amount: ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 per month (depending on experience and qualifications).
- Contract Period: One year (renewable based on performance and funding).
- Nature of Position: Full-time, contractual engagement with NALSAR University of Law.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must apply online only through the official link. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered.
Applicants must upload the following documents:
- Updated CV / Resumé
- Statement of Purpose (maximum 750 words) explaining:
- Interest in working for the Fair Trial Programme
- Motivation to represent undertrial prisoners
- Expected contribution to the programme
Apply Online Here: Application Form – Legal Fellow, Nagpur
Deadline: Applications must be submitted no later than 11 PM on 28th October 2025.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and practical exercises based on real criminal case files.
Additional Highlights
- Paid Fellowship: ₹50,000–₹60,000 per month.
- Certificate of Completion: Issued by NALSAR University of Law.
- Professional Development: Exposure to high-stakes criminal trials and fair trial jurisprudence.
- Impactful Work: Direct engagement in improving access to justice for undertrials.
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside legal aid professionals, DLSA counsels, and social workers.
FAQs – Legal Fellowship at The Square Circle Clinic, NALSAR Nagpur
1. Who can apply for this Legal Fellowship?
Lawyers with at least two years of criminal trial experience and proficiency in Marathi are eligible. Registration with any State Bar Council is mandatory.
2. Is this Legal Fellowship paid or unpaid?
This is a paid position. Fellows will receive a stipend ranging from ₹50,000–₹60,000 per month.
3. What is the last date to apply?
Applications must be submitted by 11 PM on 28th October 2025.
4. What is the selection process?
Applicants will be shortlisted based on their online submissions and Statement of Purpose. Shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews and written/practical exercises based on criminal case materials.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes. Fellows who complete the full term successfully will receive a Certificate of Completion from NALSAR University of Law.
Important Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Download Here |
| Online Application Form | Apply Here |
| Organization Website | NALSAR University of Law |
Downloadables
brochure
Contact Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| squarecirclerecruitment@nalsar.ac.in | |
| Address | The Square Circle Clinic, NALSAR University of Law, Nagpur Office |