Lawyers' Mutual, Daily Journal Launch 2026 Scholarship for First-Generation Law Students

Lawyers' Mutual Insurance Company and the Daily Journal are partnering once again to support first-generation law students through the 2026 Lawyers' Mutual/Daily Journal First-Generation Student Scholarship Program. The initiative aims to recognize and assist law students in California who are the first in their families to pursue higher education and a legal career.

The program provides $5,000 for first place, $2,500 for second, $1,500 for third, and seven $500 honorable mentions to students attending any accredited California law school. The scholarships are designed to help bridge the opportunity gap often faced by first-generation students who may lack access to the same resources or networks as their peers.

The scholarship program is one of several Daily Journal initiatives supporting California's next generation of attorneys. The publication also operates Cal Lawyer, a website offering resources, career guidance and news tailored specifically to law students and recent graduates.

Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to the legal profession through internships, volunteer work, or participation in law-related organizations.

To apply, students must submit transcripts showing good academic standing, a current résumé, and a 750-1,000-word essay addressing how their background has shaped their values, goals, and approach to creating meaningful change through the law. The essay should reflect on obstacles overcome, leadership, community involvement, and future aspirations.

The submission window runs from Nov. 17, 2025, through Feb. 1, 2026. Finalists will be announced on March 30, 2026, and their essays will be featured in a special Daily Journal supplement on April 8, 2026.

Applicants must submit their materials as PDF attachments to schoolessay@dailyjournal.com by the Feb. 1 deadline. Full eligibility details and submission criteria are available at www.dailyjournal.com/schoolessay.