INNOCENCE PROJECT

The Innocence Project works to free the innocent, prevent wrongful convictions, and create fair, compassionate, and equitable systems of justice for everyone. Founded in 1992 by Barry C. Scheck and Peter J. Neufeld at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University, the organization is now an independent nonprofit. Our work is guided by science and grounded in antiracism. Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 200 people who, collectively, spent more than 3,600 years behind bars. Our efforts have led to the passage of more than 200 transformative state laws and federal reforms. Today, the Innocence Project continues to fight for freedom, drive structural change, and advance the innocence movement.

Exoneration Innovator

NEW YORK, NY
Hybrid or Remote: Hybrid*
Supervisor: Director of Post-Conviction Litigation

JOB DESCRIPTION

This position provides someone who is passionate about social justice and righting the most grievous wrongs of our criminal legal systems with an opportunity to support the Innocence Project’s efforts to free wrongfully convicted people across the country. The Exoneration Innovator will be responsible for supporting the Post-Conviction Litigation (PCL) Team with in-depth legal research and writing, preparation of resource guides, and assisting with data management. The Exoneration Innovator may also, where needed, assist with preparing motions and materials for court appearances. The work of the Exoneration Innovator will help ensure the organization’s efforts to rectify gross miscarriages of justice are robustly supported.

The Exoneration Innovator’s job duties will involve:

• Comprehensive legal research projects, and written analysis, including in connection with complex procedural and constitutional questions;
• Managing and producing work products that provide departmental support, including, for example, by managing departmental resources (such as a brief bank) and drafting written guidance materials for internal reference;
• Assisting in data management;
• In some instances, supporting client representation by assisting legal teams with court filings and materials for hearings, and engaging in client communication.

DESIRED SKILLS

• Excellent research and analytical skills, and an ability to write clearly and persuasively;
• Self-starting initiative, the ability to follow through on projects with keen attention to detail, and facility with prioritizing in a fast-paced, deadline oriented environment;
• Proficiency with Excel/Google Sheets and PowerPoint/Google Slides will be helpful;
• Innocence Project’s exoneration work is client-centered. Ideal candidates may be system-impacted and/or will likewise value the power and contributions of system-impacted persons;
• Commitment to social and racial justice, and to the Innocence Project’s mission.

*REMOTE WORK DETAILS

Innovator will be required to come into the office two to three days per week.