Investigator Internship Program, Summer, 2027

Orleans Indigent Defender • New Orleans, LA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Orleans Public Defenders (OPD) is offering a 10-week Summer 2027 Investigator Internship focused on criminal justice and public defense. Interns assist staff investigators with case preparation and independent investigation of criminal cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, Municipal Court, and Juvenile Court. The work supports clients’ pending criminal cases and contributes to the quality of their representation and OPD’s mission.

Interns participate 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 training in defense investigation methods, strategies for interviewing witnesses, and related investigative skills. Interns gain exposure to the criminal justice system and criminal defense representation in New Orleans through direct client contact, engagement with community members, and coordination with social service and professional entities. The unpaid internship may qualify for academic credit, which interns must arrange with their schools.

The internship runs June 1 through August 6, 2027. Interns must attend the full training program from June 1 through June 4. Summer interns are expected to work at least 20 hours per week, with priority given to applicants able to work 30–40 hours per week. Hours are flexible, but the work is not limited to standard office hours and occasional irregular hours or weekends may be required. Because the internship involves substantial fieldwork, 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

• Attend the full mandatory training program at the beginning of the term, scheduled for June 1–4, 2027.
• Commit at least 20 hours per week during the summer term; priority is given to applicants available for 30–40 hours per week.
• Be available for occasional irregular hours or weekends as case needs require.
• Successful interns demonstrate responsibility, good judgment, empathy, strong organizational skills, and commitment to community service.
• Submit an online application, cover letter or statement of interest, resume/CV, unofficial transcript, and class schedule if registered for classes during the term. Applications must be complete and documentation submitted in PDF format by February 12, 2027.

Nice To Haves

• Availability for full-time work of 30–40 hours per week.
• Access to a vehicle for the duration of the internship; at least one intern in each intern partnership must have a vehicle.
• Prior experience in criminal investigation or a specific academic background is not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist staff investigators with investigation of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to felonies.
• Canvass for surveillance footage and ear- or 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 regarding investigative work performed.
• Assist with case and trial preparation.
• Coordinate with clients, community members, and social service and professional entities.

Benefits

• Work-related mileage reimbursement at the State of Louisiana rate.
• Academic credit may be available depending on the intern’s school requirements; the intern is responsible for arranging it.

What This Job Offers

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