About the role#
The Reshaping Prosecution Program works to transform the role of prosecutors by focusing on the dignity of all people impacted by the criminal legal system. As a legal extern, you will support projects including technical assistance to District Attorney offices and community-based organizations. Under the supervision of a licensed attorney, you will gain experience in substantive law, legal ethics, and professional identity development. You will participate in weekly or biweekly meetings to develop work plans, discuss organizational activities, and receive performance feedback.
What you'll do#
- Conduct community and policy landscape research and develop community outreach strategies.
- Manage advocacy efforts and draft written content for a wide audience.
- Work collaboratively with attorney site leads to build equitable diversion programs.
- Perform legal research related to diversion programming, including legal eligibility and statutory interpretation.
- Gain insight into prosecutorial discretion, including case screening, charging, due process, and constitutional issues.
- Integrate legal doctrine, theory, and skills through hands-on work with legal professionals.
What you'll need#
- Currently enrolled in law school (2L or higher) with at least two semesters completed, or enrolled in a Masters of Public Policy program.
- Successful completion of a course in Legal Reasoning, Research & Writing.
- Demonstrated ability to work with advocates, government officials, criminal legal system personnel, and people directly impacted by the criminal legal system.
- Education or work experience in public policy, curriculum development, teaching, social work, political science, criminal justice, or a related field.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Canva.
- Strong organizational skills.
Location & details#
- Location: Washington, DC (Dupont Circle office).
- Term: Fall 2026.
- Commitment: Up to 20 hours per week, with a requirement to be in the office 2-3 days per week.
- Compensation: This is an unpaid position for academic credit. The organization will assist in coordinating with your school or program to meet credit requirements.
About Vera Institute of Justice
The Vera Institute of Justice is a nonprofit organization founded in 1961. It focuses on research, technical assistance, and demonstration projects related to criminal justice. The organization works to address mass incarceration, racial disparities, and issues involving law enforcement. It maintains offices in Brooklyn, Washington, New Orleans, and Los Angeles and employs 303 people.
How to get in at Vera Institute of Justice
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