Summer 2026 - Law and Policy Intern, Vera Louisiana
About The Position
The Law & Policy Intern will provide a wide range of support for our ongoing projects, including advancing prosecution reform, jail population reduction, increasing investment in thriving communities, and in multiple parishes and at the state legislature. The Law & Policy Intern will be supervised primarily by the Senior Program Associate and will complete a variety of projects with other staff. This internship will provide an opportunity for the intern to gain knowledge and experience in research, writing, advocacy, local and state government relations, and criminal legal systems in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana. The intern should be available to work up to 35 hours per week during the Summer months from the New Orleans office. The Law & Policy Intern will learn to: Conduct policy & legal research related to incarceration rates and budgets Support advocacy efforts by drafting memos, summaries, and written materials for internal and external stakeholders Navigate local and state government processes, including engagement with parish level systems and the LA State legislature Analyze and understand criminal legal systems in New Orleans and across the state with attention to how policy decisions impact communities About the role: Research and analysis Conduct legal research and writing Review, organize, and analyze public records Observe criminal and magistrate court proceedings and City Council meetings and budget hearings Partnership support Attend coalition and partner organization meetings Advocacy Prepare for and engage in public policy advocacy Administrative Provide support for planned events and other related responsibilities that may arise
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in law school or post-graduate policy program
- Interest in a nonprofit career, particularly in criminal justice related policy reform , and advocacy
- Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills
- Residence in or ability to be present in Louisiana for duration of internship
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the Deep South
- Willingness to travel to Baton Rouge on occasion
Responsibilities
- Conduct legal research and writing
- Review, organize, and analyze public records
- Observe criminal and magistrate court proceedings and City Council meetings and budget hearings
- Attend coalition and partner organization meetings
- Prepare for and engage in public policy advocacy
- Provide support for planned events and other related responsibilities that may arise
Benefits
- merit pay
- generous paid time off
- a comprehensive health insurance plan
- student loan repayment benefits
- professional development training opportunities and up to $2,000 annual for education costs and fees relevant to Vera work
- employer-funded retirement plan
- flexible time
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
