As Litigation Finance Grows, Law Students Have Opportunity To Get In On It Early

Above the Law

by Joe Patrice

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

As litigation finance continues to grow as a significant industry, law schools are beginning to recognize the need to integrate this knowledge into their curricula. However, real-world experience remains crucial for students looking to understand how litigation is funded and managed. Enter the Certum Group Litigation Finance Fellowship, which offers law and business students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to the intersection of legal and financial strategies in complex litigations. The fellowship provides a four-week immersive program where participants work closely with legal, insurance, and finance professionals at Certum Group. Fellows engage in analyzing case funding requests, modeling resolution scenarios, attending client development meetings, and preparing marketing materials. This is not just an internship; it’s a structured learning experience designed to give students practical insights into how litigation risk is assessed, priced, and managed. Led by William Marra, who also teaches litigation finance at Penn Carey Law, the fellowship bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Marra emphasizes that understanding both legal doctrine and financial strategies is essential for modern lawyers, especially as litigation financing becomes increasingly critical in shaping the legal landscape. The program offers a unique chance to explore all aspects of litigation finance under one roof, from funding decisions to insurance solutions. For students interested in legal careers, this fellowship represents an opportunity to gain a competitive edge by learning how cases are funded and supported. With the industry growing to $16 billion and beyond, understanding the financial side of litigation is no longer optional—it’s a vital skill for future legal professionals. The fellowship, based in New York City but open to remote participants, provides a $3,000 stipend and offers meaningful exposure to this rapidly evolving field. As law schools begin to incorporate courses on litigation finance, initiatives like the Certum Group Fellowship are helping students stay ahead of the curve. This program not only fills a critical gap in legal education but also prepares the next generation of lawyers to navigate the financial complexities of modern litigation. For any law or business student looking to gain practical experience in this growing field, the fellowship is a valuable chance to learn directly from industry leaders and shape their career trajectory accordingly.

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Originally published on Above the Law on 3/2/2026