Summer, 2027 Client Advocate Internship Program

Orleans Indigent Defender • New Orleans, LA

1d

About The Position

The Orleans Public Defenders Office (OPD) is seeking interns interested in public defense and criminal justice advocacy for its Summer 2027 Client Advocate Internship Program. OPD provides holistic, community-based representation in New Orleans through a client-centered team model. Interns will join the Client Services Division and be partnered with a Client Advocate during the 10-week program, gaining insight into the criminal legal system and criminal defense representation in New Orleans.

Interns will support advocacy for clients throughout the case process, with a focus on improving outcomes upon release. They will assist in identifying alternatives to incarceration, developing individual mitigation plans to reduce detention, and connecting clients with appropriate social services and treatment. The work includes direct client contact, engagement with community members, and coordination with social service and professional entities.

This is an unpaid internship. Applicants may seek funding through their schools or other outside sources, and OPD can assist with required paperwork. Academic credit may be available through participating schools; arranging credit is the applicant’s responsibility. Applicants must be able to attend the full training program at the beginning of the term.

Requirements

• Demonstrated interest in serving underserved and marginalized communities.
• Ability to work well with people from varied socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and educational backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with clients, staff, and community members.
• Ability to stay organized and work independently as well as in a team-driven environment.
• Ability to attend the full training program at the beginning of the term.

Responsibilities

• Visit clients in jail and conduct intake assessments for services.
• Contact clients’ family members to provide updates and gather information.
• Help connect clients with services, write release plans, and ensure clients have information about services available after release.
• Contact and coordinate with social service entities around New Orleans.
• Assist in identifying alternatives to incarceration and use individual mitigation plans to support reduced detention and diversion to appropriate social services and treatment.

Benefits

• The internship offers direct experience with the criminal legal system and criminal defense representation, client contact, community engagement, and coordination with social service and professional entities.
• The experience may provide a foundation for academic disciplines and future careers, including law and the social sciences.
• Experience in the program can demonstrate responsibility and commitment to public service to graduate and law schools.
• Many schools may award academic credit for internships; OPD is willing to work with interns and schools through the process.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed