What are the responsibilities and job description for the Spring 2026 Judicial Intern position at The Sentencing Foundation?
About us…
The Sentencing Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia, PA, dedicated to transforming the criminal justice system through Resource-Based Sentencing and Supervision (RBSS)—a comprehensive program designed to reduce recidivism and promote true public safety. Rather than defaulting to incarceration, RBSS matches a convicted individual to resources that address the root cause(s) of their criminal behavior, including job training, substance abuse treatment, education, and mental health counseling.
The program relies on the commitment of sentencing and supervising judges to select the most effective and dedicated re-entry resources and to require the defendant to appropriately utilize them. As the logistical backbone of this initiative, TSF facilitates critical connections between the courts and trustworthy community resources—ensuring that individuals convicted of crimes are given a fair opportunity to re-enter society and build lives they no longer want to jeopardize through criminal behavior.
Position Overview:
TSF is seeking motivated Volunteer Interns to support judges using the Resource-Based Sentencing & Supervision Program during court proceedings. The intern will assist judges with providing relevant TSF documents during sentencing, research, resource coordination, data tracking, and community engagement—all vital to ensuring a fairer and more rehabilitative sentencing approach.
Responsibilities:
• Assist judges and TSF staff in facilitating resource-based sentencing and supervision plans
• Research re-entry programs, housing, treatment services, education/workforce training, and other support systems in the surrounding area
• Maintain updated databases of available resources and program partners
• Help track sentencing outcomes and prepare data reports for program evaluation
• Contribute to the development of educational materials and outreach strategies
• Participate in virtual meetings with stakeholders
Qualifications:
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a program in Criminal Justice, Law, Public Policy, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field
• Strong research, organizational, and writing skills
• Strong interest in innovative criminal justice reform and re-entry work
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders
• Commitment to equity, fairness, and second chances
• You do not need to be based in Philadelphia to participate, we have participating jurisdictions near you!
Benefits:
- Although the internship is unpaid, the benefits of the internship include receiving a letter of recommendation from your supervising Judge if you complete the program, as well as college credit.
- Hands-on experience with a leading-edge sentencing reform initiative
- Opportunities for professional networking and mentorship
- Flexible hours and remote/hybrid participation
- Letters of recommendation upon successful completion
How to Apply:
Submit your resume and cover letter regarding your interests in law and working with the Sentencing Foundation by January 1st, 2025
Other things to know:
- The term of this internship is January 12th 2026, to May 5th, 2026 with the opportunity to re-up
- Minimum time contribution to the internship is 15 hours a week