Vera Institute of Justice · 1 month ago
Summer 2026 - Law and Policy Intern, Vera Louisiana
New Orleans, LA
Internship
Hybrid
Intern
$17/hr - $25/hr
Start in 2026 SummerVera Institute of Justice is focused on advancing justice, particularly racial justice, and is seeking a Law and Policy Intern. The intern will provide support for ongoing projects related to prosecution reform and community investment, while gaining experience in research, writing, and advocacy within the criminal legal system.
Innovation ManagementLaw EnforcementSocial Impact
Responsibilities
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
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
Qualification
Required
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
Preferred
Demonstrated connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the Deep South
Willingness to travel to Baton Rouge on occasion
Benefits
Merit pay
Generous paid time off
A comprehensive health insurance plan
Student loan repayment benefits
Professional development training opportunities
Up to $2,000 annual for education costs and fees relevant to Vera work
Employer-funded retirement plan
Flexible time
Company
Vera Institute of Justice
Vera Institute of Justice is an independent nonprofit national research and policy organization.
Founded in 1961
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$0.25MKey Investors
Chubb
2023-03-21Grant· $0.25M
Leadership Team
Insha Rahman
Vice President, Advocacy and Partnerships
Tracey Wilmot
Vice President, Chief People Officer
Recent News
New Orleans CityBusiness
2025-05-06
San Francisco Chronicle
2025-04-17
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