Policy Externship (Spring 2026)

Policy Externship

ABOUT THE INNOCENCE PROJECT

The Innocence Project works to free the innocent, prevent wrongful convictions, and create fair, compassionate, and equitable systems of justice for everyone. Our work is guided by science and grounded in anti-racism. Founded in 1992 by Barry C. Scheck and Peter J. Neufeld, the Innocence Project uses DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who, collectively, spent more than 4,000 years behind bars. Our efforts have led to the passage of more than 250 transformative state laws and federal reforms. Today, the Innocence Project continues to fight for freedom, drive structural change, and advance the innocence movement. It is affiliated with New York University School of Law.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Policy Extern provides support to the Policy Department reporting to the Legal Policy Analyst. The Policy Department works with Congress, state legislatures, and local leaders to enact laws and policies that prevent wrongful convictions and protect the constitutional rights of all who come in contact with the American criminal legal system.

The primary focus of this extern is to support the Legal Policy Analyst with legal research as it pertains to the prevention of wrongful convictions and the improvement of post-conviction procedures. 

This position will be for the Spring 2026 academic semester and will last the duration as required by the student’s academic program.

All Innocence Project employees must embrace, respect, and value the rich diversity of perspectives and experience of a diverse and heterogeneous staff.  We recognize and appreciate that our work is better for having varied participants and thought partners.

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate for this externship is passionate about racial justice, is a self-starter, is motivated, a diligent researcher, is intellectually curious, and is a detail-oriented individual with a dedication and interest in the mission of the Innocence Project.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Legal Research, including case law and statutory analysis;
• Familiar with bluebook editing and drafting memorandum; 
• Review & Summarize Peer Reviewed Publications; and
• Other tasks as assigned by the Legal Policy Analyst

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Rising 2L or 3L; 
• Legal research skills and proficiency with LexisNexis or Westlaw.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills;
• Attention to detail along with commitment to quality and proofreading; 
• Competency or experience in G-Suite; and 
• Interest in Advocacy, Criminal Justice, Constitutional Law, and Policy Reform.

KEY COMPETENCIES + VALUES

• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks; 
• Ability to work independently and seek guidance as necessary;
• Ability to work with groups of diverse individuals in respectful, equitable, and inclusive ways.
• Enthusiasm for the work of the Innocence Project and for social justice, including a demonstrated commitment to public interest; and
• Shares in the IP’s values of accountability, collaboration, empathy + compassion, equity, person-centeredness, quality focus, and self-awareness.

WORKFORCE DIVERSITY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The Innocence Project considers the diversity of its workforce to be vital to our organization’s success in meeting its mission.  We strongly encourage applicants from all cultures, races, educational backgrounds, life experiences, socio-economic classes, sexual orientations, age, gender, and physical abilities to apply. Individuals with personal connections to the criminal legal system are strongly encouraged to apply.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, it is our policy not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, familial status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics, actual or perceived domestic violence victim status, unemployment status, caregiver status, or any other category protected by law.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply, please upload a cover letter expressing your interest in the role and the organization’s work, and a resume titled with your name (last name. first name. cover letter/resume). Only applications with cover letters will be considered complete applications. Information submitted through this secure site is kept confidential. Due to the large volume of applications, we are unable to give applicant updates by phone or direct email. 

**Applications for this position will be considered on a rolling basis until the post is filled.** 

COMPENSATION

This externship is for college course credit provided by your school.