Law and Policy Intern Summer 2026 at Vera Institute of Justice (Hybrid Role In New Orleans, LA) 17-25$/hr Stipend

The Vera Institute of Justice, a national leader in ending mass incarceration and advancing racial justice, is seeking a Law and Policy Intern for its Louisiana office. This is a Hybrid role based in New Orleans.

Vera Louisiana works to address the state's carceral impact by advancing prosecution reform, reducing jail populations, and increasing investment in thriving communities. As an intern, you will not just be an observer; you will be an active participant in research, writing, and advocacy efforts that directly impact policy decisions in the Deep South.

Key Responsibilities

The intern will support ongoing projects related to prosecution reform and community investment. Your day-to-day work will include:

1. Research & Analysis

• Legal Research: Conduct deep dives into incarceration rates, budgets, and criminal legal systems in New Orleans and across the state.
• Data Analysis: Review, organize, and analyze public records to understand how policy decisions impact real communities.

2. Advocacy & Government Relations

• Drafting: Create memos, summaries, and written materials for both internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Navigation: Engage with parish-level systems and the Louisiana State Legislature.
• Observation: Attend and observe criminal/magistrate court proceedings, City Council meetings, and budget hearings to track systemic issues.

3. Community Engagement

• Attend meetings with coalition partners and partner organizations.
• Provide support for planned events and public policy advocacy campaigns.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

1. Academic Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled in Law School OR a Post-Graduate Policy Program.
• Interest: A demonstrated interest in nonprofit careers, specifically in criminal justice reform and advocacy.

2. Location & Logistics

• Residence: Must reside in or be able to be present in Louisiana for the duration of the internship.
• Travel: Willingness to travel to Baton Rouge on occasion for legislative or advocacy work.

3. Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the Deep South.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Compensation & Benefits

Vera offers a competitive package for interns, reflecting its commitment to equity.

• Pay Rate: $17/hr - $25/hr (Merit-based).
• Education Stipend: Up to $2,000 annual for education costs/fees relevant to Vera work.
• Loan Repayment: Student loan repayment benefits.
• Health: Comprehensive health insurance plan.
• Time Off: Generous paid time off and flexible schedules.
• Development: Professional development training opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply, candidates typically need to submit a Resume and a Cover Letter. Your cover letter should clearly explain why you are passionate about criminal justice reform and your specific interest in the Louisiana context.

Apply Here (Official Vera Careers Page)