OPD is seeking individuals interested in indigent defense to join our semester-long Investigative Internship program for Fall 2026. The Orleans Public Defenders Office provides holistic, community-based representation in New Orleans. We represent thousands of people each year utilizing a client-centered team model that puts the client first and takes a 360-degree approach to our advocacy and representation. We recognize our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out. Our diverse staff includes adult and juvenile attorneys; social workers; client, youth and parent advocates; investigators, and administrators—all working together for equal justice for our clients, their families, our community, and a better New Orleans. In short, we protect innocence, defend the Constitution, demand justice, and hold power accountable. Interns in OPD’s program assist staff investigators with case preparation and investigation on misdemeanor and felony criminal cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, Municipal Court, and Juvenile Court. An intern investigator’s work will directly impact the outcome of a client’s pending criminal case while increasing the quality of representation and meeting our mission and vision. Intern investigators work with staff investigators to do the comprehensive and independent investigation that every client is entitled to by law. This leads to the timely progression of cases through the criminal justice system and less time innocent clients sit in jail awaiting their day in court. Interns are involved in all aspects of criminal defense investigation—both field and office related activities—and will frequently assist with other aspects of case and trial preparation. Daily tasks will vary based on the type of case, investigative tasks required, and the stage of the case (e.g., pre-acceptance, motions hearing, trial, or sentencing).