About the role#
The Reshaping Prosecution program focuses on transforming the role of prosecutors to address mass incarceration and promote racial equity. This externship provides students with the opportunity to support projects including technical assistance for District Attorney offices and community-based organizations. You will work under the supervision of a licensed attorney to engage in substantive legal work, develop your professional identity, and gain a comprehensive understanding of prosecutorial reform.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate with attorney site leads on diversion programs and sustainability projects.
- Conduct legal research related to diversion programming, including statutory interpretation and eligibility.
- Perform community and policy landscape research.
- Develop community outreach strategies and manage advocacy efforts.
- Draft written content for a wide audience.
- Observe day-to-day legal activities and participate in experiential learning with prosecutor partners.
- Meet weekly or biweekly with your supervisor to develop work plans, evaluate performance, and analyze project outcomes.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in law school as a 2L or higher, or enrollment in a Masters of Public Policy program.
- Successful completion of a Legal Reasoning, Research & Writing course.
- Enrollment in a course or seminar to receive academic credit for this externship.
- Ability to work with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, advocates, and people directly impacted by the criminal legal system.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Canva.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Preferred: Education or experience in fields such as public policy, social work, political science, or criminal justice; prior experience in a prosecutor or public defender office; lived experience with the criminal legal system; and a strong interest in racial justice advocacy.
Location & details#
- This role is based in our Washington, DC office in Dupont Circle.
- The schedule is hybrid, requiring 2-3 days per week in the office, up to 20 hours total per week.
- The term runs during Winter 2027, from mid-January to early May.
- This is an unpaid position for academic credit.
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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