About the role#
The Client Advocate Internship program offers insight into the criminal legal system and public defense in New Orleans. You will join the Client Services Division and partner with a Client Advocate to support our holistic, client-centered representation. This role involves direct contact with clients and their families, as well as coordination with local social service entities. Interns play a role in identifying alternatives to incarceration and creating mitigation plans to help clients.
What you'll do#
- Visit clients in jail to conduct intake assessments.
- Reach out to client family members to gather information and provide updates.
- Connect clients with necessary services and write release plans.
- Ensure clients have the information they need for services after their release.
- Coordinate with various social service entities across New Orleans.
What you'll need#
- Demonstrated interest in serving underserved and marginalized communities.
- Ability to work with people from diverse socio-economic, racial, cultural, and educational backgrounds.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to stay organized while working independently or as part of a team.
- Availability to attend the full training program at the start of the term.
- We welcome students from fields such as Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Public Health, History, and Communications.
Location & details#
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Term: Winter 2027 (January 23 to April 23).
- Modality: This is an on-site, full-time, unpaid internship.
- Training: Attendance at the mandatory training on January 23 and January 24, 2027, is required.
About Orleans Public Defenders
Orleans Public Defenders is a government agency based in New Orleans. Founded in 2007, the organization provides legal representation to indigent clients. The staff includes attorneys, investigators, social workers, and administrators who work together on criminal and juvenile defense cases. They operate with a holistic model that addresses client needs both inside and outside the courtroom.
How to get in at Orleans Public Defenders
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