DeJanae Harges spent four years at Lake Forest College studying how the legal system fails people without resources. Now she's working inside one, trying to change it.

Harges, a Class of 2026 graduate who double-majored in politics and African American studies with a minor in legal studies, began a two-year Professional Fellowship with Partners for Justice on Monday, July 13. The national organization embeds trained advocates inside public defender offices to connect clients with housing, employment, mental health services, and other support before trial and sentencing.

Harges is based in Pennsylvania for the placement, serving as a full-time client advocate.

"I've always wanted to provide resources for people and break down the barriers to accessing them," Harges told the college in a profile published Tuesday, July 22.

Growing up in Indianapolis, Harges said she witnessed firsthand the obstacles people face when trying to access basic services. That experience drew her to criminal justice and community advocacy work at Lake Forest College, where she completed several internships in direct services before graduating.

How the fellowship works

Partners for Justice places fellows as entry-level employees within public defender offices for up to two years. Advocates gather information that can strengthen a client's legal case while also linking them to community resources outside the courtroom. According to the organization's website, Partners for Justice has connected more than 29,000 people with social services since 2021 and says its work has eliminated nearly 9,000 years of potential incarceration since 2018.

The application process includes short-answer questions, a pre-recorded first-round interview, and a virtual final interview with a hiring manager. Harges found the opportunity through Handshake, a career platform used by college students, after a recruiter contacted her directly.

What's next

Harges said the fellowship's mentorship from attorneys and legal professionals made it an ideal bridge before law school. She plans to apply after completing the two-year placement.

She told the college she hopes her path encourages other students considering a gap year to explore roles that combine service with legal work. The fellowship cohort she joined started July 13, with placement locations determined by need and availability across the country.