Fall 2025 - Vera Louisiana - Law and Policy Intern at Vera Institute of Justice

New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

InternshipExperience Level

InternshipJob Type

UnknownVisa

Criminal Justice, Public Policy, Non-ProfitIndustries

Requirements

Currently enrolled in law school or post-graduate policy program in which an internship will fulfill an academic credit or course/graduation requirement
Must be located in Louisiana
Two in-office days a week required in the New Orleans office
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
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
Preferred
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, legislation, budget documents, and news articles
Observe criminal and magistrate court proceedings, Legislative convenings, and City Council meetings & 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

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Legal ResearchPolicy AnalysisAdvocacyGovernment RelationsCriminal Justice PolicyLegislative AffairsProsecution ReformJail Population Reduction

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this internship paid?

No, this position is unpaid.

What are the location requirements for this internship?

The position is open to a student located in Louisiana.

What qualifications are required for this role?

Candidates must be currently enrolled in law school or a post-graduate policy program where the internship fulfills an academic credit or course/graduation requirement, show interest in a nonprofit career in policy reform and advocacy, and demonstrate initiative.

What values does Vera Institute of Justice expect from its staff?

Vera expects staff to embody respect, independence, collaboration, commitment, anti-racism, and equity in both outward-facing work and internal culture.

What makes a strong candidate for this internship?

Strong candidates are currently enrolled in law school or a post-graduate policy program in Louisiana where the internship fulfills academic requirements, have interest in nonprofit policy reform and advocacy, and can demonstrate initiative; those directly impacted by the criminal justice system are encouraged to apply.

Vera Institute of Justice

Addresses injustices in law enforcement and society

About Vera Institute of Justice

Vera Institute of Justice focuses on addressing significant social issues related to justice and law enforcement. The organization collaborates with various partners to confront challenges such as mass incarceration, racial inequalities, and the erosion of public trust in law enforcement. Their work also extends to supporting vulnerable and marginalized communities, as well as individuals affected by crime and violence. Unlike many organizations, Vera Institute emphasizes a collaborative approach, bringing together diverse stakeholders to create effective solutions. The ultimate goal of Vera Institute is to promote a fair and equitable justice system that serves all members of society.

New York City, New YorkHeadquarters

1961Year Founded

$243.2KTotal Funding

GRANTCompany Stage

Government & Public Sector, Social ImpactIndustries

201-500Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Student Loan Assistance

Professional Development Budget

401(k) Retirement Plan

Flexible Work Hours

Risks

Unionization could lead to higher labor costs and potential disruptions.

Partnership on 'Dignity Principles' may face scrutiny if not effectively implemented.

Securus' educational expansion might overshadow Vera's initiatives in the same area.

Differentiation

Vera collaborates with JLUSA on 'Dignity Principles' to enhance criminal justice reform.

Focus on educational technology aligns with mission to reduce recidivism and mass incarceration.

Utilizes AI to enforce privacy, security, and fairness, enhancing social innovation strategies.

Upsides

Increased educational tech in prisons aligns with Vera's mission to reduce recidivism.

Unionization may improve working conditions, boosting organizational effectiveness.

Chubb Rule of Law Fund offers partnership opportunities for racial justice initiatives.

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