welcome to the legal systems and policy lab
The Legal Systems and Policy Lab is an applied research and civic infrastructure studio dedicated to data governance, institutional development, and participatory policy systems. The Lab builds tools, frameworks, and learning systems that align with long-term civic integrity and public trust globally.
Our work includes:
Developing safety and policy dashboards for local government
Mapping legislation and regulatory patterns
Creating participatory indices and governance diagnostics
Supporting training programs across AI policy, civic engagement, and community-informed metrics
Supporting student-led applied research at the intersection of law, tech, and policy
The Lab is also the research engine behind the Civic Futures Institute, a growing international initiative focused on civic training exchanges, training, and development.
OUr MISsion
Our mission is to advance efficiency and innovation in governance and policymaking by conducting research, developing data-driven tools, and fostering collaboration across institutions and communities. We focus on strengthening systems, equipping decision-makers with actionable insights, and providing students with real-world opportunities to contribute to meaningful, high-impact work.
Our values
collaboration
We work with governments, institutions, and researchers to develop practical solutions for complex policy and governance challenges. Through partnerships, data-driven insights, and knowledge-sharing, we create tools that support informed decision-making and long-term system improvements.
Innovation
We create forward-thinking solutions to strengthen policy, governance, and fiscal decision-making. By integrating research, data-driven tools, and AI policy analysis, we help governments and institutions navigate complex challenges and adapt to evolving global trends.
impact
We focus on solutions that improve governance, strengthen policy decisions, and create lasting impact across communities and institutions. Our work ensures that governments and organizations have the tools they need to make informed, strategic choices that serve the public good.
research and TOOLs
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DataStorm is an annual event designed to increase civic participation in legislative systems and create opportunities for students to skill-up in a 3-day event that combines research, workshops, and policy analysis.
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Developing frameworks for inclusive, participatory research. Check out our datathons on Instagram @insight_legi.
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Using AI and LLM to explore and analyze state and municipal-level annual financial reports to gain insights for more effective fiscal policies.
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Nationwide dataset tracking historical use. of fines and fees and other monetary sanctions at state and municipal levels.
winter datathon updates
January 3-13th
Virtual
Look at our InsightLegi’s Winter Community Datathon
Our January datathon was all about empowering participants with tools and skills to address critical justice system challenges, including trasnparency and data access.
Led by Tejaswi K. our Winter DataStorm Team Lead, here’s what we accomplished:
Practical experience in web scraping and data organization.
51 Completed Tasks: Data collected for 8 states, including Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports (ACFRs).
Municipal-Level ACFRS for 15 counties in Virginia! Each one contributing to better data transparency and actionable solutions.
“We’re at a pivotal moment. AI will transform how we analyze legislation at scale, creating real impact in governance and policymaking. lsap students are leading the way and developing the tools that will shape the future.”
want to get involved?
The Lab is always looking for motivated students to join us.
Data Contributor: If you’re in the Washington, D.C. area and interested in cleaning and tidying data during one of our many datathons, reach out1
Legislative Tracker: If you have some legislation you’re especially interested in? Please send us a tip! In our first phase, we’re focused on monetary sanctions and fees. Is there an issue in you’re particularly curious about? Reach out so that we can do some analysis.
Student in Need of Hours or Capstone? If you’re a student looking for support with a capstone project, proficient in R, Python, LLMs, and would like some hands-on work, please reach out!