Investigator Internship Program, Summer, 2027

Orleans Indigent Defender • New Orleans, LA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Orleans Public Defenders (OPD) is seeking interns interested in criminal justice and public defense for its 10-week Summer 2027 Investigator Internship Program. Interns assist staff investigators with case preparation and independent investigation of criminal cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, Municipal Court, and Juvenile Court. Their work contributes directly to the representation and pending cases of OPD clients, supporting the timely progression of cases through the criminal justice system.

Interns take part in field and office aspects of criminal defense investigation and may assist with case and trial preparation. Tasks vary according to the case, investigative needs, and stage of proceedings. The program provides extensive training in defense investigation, witness communication, and related investigative skills. Interns gain exposure to criminal defense representation, direct client contact, community engagement, and coordination with social-service and professional organizations. Academic credit may be available depending on the intern’s school requirements; arranging credit is the intern’s responsibility. The internship is unpaid.

The summer term runs June 1 through August 6, 2027. Interns must attend the full mandatory training program June 1–4, 2027. Interns are expected to work at least 20 hours per week, with priority given to those able to work 30–40 hours per week. Hours are flexible, but occasional irregular hours and weekends may be required. Fieldwork is substantial, and at least one person in each intern partnership must have access to a vehicle. Work-related mileage may be reimbursed at the State of Louisiana rate.

Requirements

• Demonstrate responsibility, good judgment, empathy, strong organizational skills, and commitment to community service.
• Be available for at least 20 hours per week during the summer term; applicants able to work 30–40 hours per week receive priority.
• Be able to work occasional irregular hours or weekends as case needs require.
• Attend the full mandatory training program June 1–4, 2027.
• At least one intern in each intern partnership must have access to a vehicle; individual interns are encouraged to secure vehicle access for the duration of the internship.
• Submit a complete application, cover letter or statement of interest, resume/CV, unofficial transcript, and class schedule if registered for classes during the term. Documents must be submitted in PDF format.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in criminal investigation is not required; no specific academic background is required.
• Vehicle access is encouraged, particularly for fieldwork.
• Applicants able to commit to full-time hours of 30–40 per week receive priority.
• Academic credit may be available, depending on the applicant’s school requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assist OPD staff investigators with investigation of criminal cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
• Canvas for surveillance and potential ear and eye witnesses.
• Use resources to locate witnesses, verify information, and conduct background checks.
• Identify and interview potential witnesses.
• Revisit and assess crime scenes.
• Document crime scenes and evidence after law-enforcement investigation.
• Write investigative memoranda.
• Obtain records.
• Prepare trial exhibits.
• Potentially testify about work performed.
• Assist with other aspects of case and trial preparation.
• Attend the entire mandatory training program at the beginning of the term.

Benefits

• Opportunity to gain practical experience in criminal defense investigation and the criminal justice system.
• Direct client contact and engagement with community members.
• Opportunity to contribute to clients’ cases and public-service work.
• Academic credit may be available depending on the school’s requirements.
• Reimbursement for work-related mileage at the State of Louisiana rate.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed