Legal Intern, Vera Louisiana

Vera Louisiana is seeking two Legal Interns to provide support for ongoing projects focused on prosecution reform, jail population reduction, investment in thriving communities, mental health supports, and addressing Louisiana's carceral impact. The interns will gain knowledge and experience in research, writing, advocacy, and criminal legal systems in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana. Responsibilities include legal research, analysis, partnership support, advocacy, and administrative tasks. The ideal candidates are currently enrolled in law school or a post-graduate policy program, have an interest in nonprofit careers and policy reform, possess strong communication and organizational skills, and can work effectively with diverse backgrounds.

• Conduct legal research and writing
• Review, organize, and analyze public records
• Observe criminal and magistrate court proceedings and City Council meetings and budget hearings
• Build legal research, written communication, and systemic analysis skills
• Attend coalition and partner organization meetings
• Build verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Gain awareness about network of criminal legal system advocacy organizations
• Prepare for and engage in public policy advocacy
• Build persuasive advocacy and communications skills
• Gain knowledge about successful advocacy arguments and responses at a quick pace
• Provide support for planned events and other related responsibilities that may arise
• Build knowledge about ways that advocates build public awareness
• Gain experience in routine, professional responsibilities

• Currently enrolled in law school or post-graduate policy program
• Interest in a nonprofit career, particularly in policy reform and advocacy
• Ability to show initiative, ask questions, and adapt to changing priorities
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills
• A demonstrated ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds
• Demonstrated connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the D

• Compensation range of $16-$25 hourly
• Possibility to receive academic credit for the internship/externship
• Assistance in working with the school or program to meet academic credit requirements
• Fully vaccinated work environment for a healthy and safe workplace
• Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer
• Commitment to advancing justice, particularly racial justice
• Value diverse experiences and backgrounds
• Opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in public policy advocacy
• Opportunity to build persuasive advocacy and communications skills
• Opportunity to gain knowledge about successful advocacy arguments and responses
• Opportunity to gain experience in routine, professional responsibilities
• Opportunity to build knowledge about ways advocates build public awareness
• Opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software required
• Flexible start and end dates for the internship
• Located in New Orleans, LA