Job Description
Law and Policy Intern - Gain Experience in Criminal Justice Reform and Advocacy at Vera Louisiana
Organization: **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** Location: New Orleans, LA Salary: Unpaid, for course credit Experience: Law school or post-graduate policy program
Who We Are:
**MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** is a national organization dedicated to transforming the criminal legal and immigration systems to ensure fairness for all. With a history dating back to 1961, our team of advocates, researchers, and policy experts work with impacted communities and government leaders to develop just, antiracist solutions. Our goal is to create a system where money does not determine freedom, fewer people are incarcerated, and everyone is treated with dignity.
About the Role:
As a Law and Policy Intern at Vera Louisiana, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects focused on advancing prosecution reform, reducing jail populations, investing in communities, and addressing the impact of incarceration in multiple parishes and at the state legislature. This internship will provide valuable experience in research, writing, advocacy, and government relations in the criminal justice system in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana.
What You'll Do:
- Conduct legal research and writing - Review, organize, and analyze public records and news articles - Observe criminal and magistrate court proceedings, 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 - Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in law school or post-graduate policy program - Interest in a nonprofit career, specifically 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 - Demonstrated ability to work with diverse backgrounds - Preferred: connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the Deep South and willingness to travel to Baton Rouge on occasion
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
Location and Schedule:
This role will report to our New Orleans office and will require availability for up to 20 hours per week during the Fall or Spring, with some flexibility to accommodate personal and academic schedules. Vera interns and employees adhere to a hybrid schedule, with full-time positions generally amounting to 10 days per month and part-time positions to 5 days per month.
Compensation:
This internship is designed for academic credit and will be unpaid. Vera will assist in working with the school or program to arrange for credit and meet requirements.
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume, explaining your passion for criminal justice reform and what you hope to gain from this internship. Applications may also be faxed to the attention of People, Place, and Culture at **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW***.
In accordance with our commitment to a healthy and safe work environment, all employees at **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** are required to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before their start date. Accommodations may be made for employees who cannot receive the vaccine due to a disability or religious belief.
Vera is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We value diversity in experiences, including educational background and justice system contact, and rely on a diverse staff to fulfill our mission.
Join us in advancing justice, particularly racial justice, in a multicultural and globally connected world. For more information about Vera, please visit **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW***
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