Tennessee Innocence Project
Staff Attorney
Tennessee Innocence Project
Job Summary
The Tennessee Innocence Project (“TIP”) is a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating and litigating claims of actual innocence made by individuals convicted in Tennessee courts. TIP litigates wrongful conviction cases to obtain exonerations, trains law students and attorneys about how to litigate those cases and prevent future wrongful convictions, and effectuates changes to facilitate the discovery of wrongful convictions and provide remedies.
We are seeking a full-time Staff Attorney to assist in investigating and litigating Tennessee cases as described below. This position is based in our office in Nashville and will require travel throughout Tennessee. The Staff Attorney reports directly to the Executive Director.
Job Responsibilities
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As co-counsel with TIP’s Executive Director, this position will represent clients claiming actual innocence in postconviction matters in state court to achieve: (1) a vacated conviction or sentence, (2) dismissal of all charges, and (3) release from prison. This position is multi-faceted and includes the following:
- Investigate and oversee investigations into post-conviction innocence claims in Tennessee,
- Collaborate with conviction review/integrity units to investigate and resolve cases,
- Collaborate with TIP’s pro bono partners on application intake review and active cases,
- Draft and litigate motions for access to evidence and DNA testing,
- Litigate post-conviction innocence claims utilizing DNA testing or other newly discovered evidence in state court, federal court and/or relevant administrative bodies,
- Work with expert witnesses, including DNA testing, medical experts, and forensic science experts,
- Review case records (trial and appellate records, police and lab reports, prosecutor files) to understand and assess the factual and procedural history, generating extensive work product documents and memos in the process,
- Identify and take steps necessary to uncover and analyze any new evidence of innocence,
- Communicate with clients, defense attorneys, prosecutors, witnesses, private investigators, experts, and others,
- Supervise law student interns and externs,
- Give talks and presentations on case work and law, as appropriate.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Admission to the Tennessee Bar required,
- 4+ years criminal trial, appellate, and/or post-conviction litigation experience required,
- Ability to travel throughout Tennessee required,
- Forensic science background preferred.
KEY COMPETENCIES
- An understanding of Tennessee’s post-conviction remedies,
- An understanding of, and dedication to, indigent defense and TIP’s mission,
- Strong organizational and time management skills,
- Excellent written and oral communication skills,
- Experience conducting oral argument and evidentiary hearings,
- Experience preparing briefs in state and federal courts,
- Detailed and process-oriented,
- Ability to analyze cases with strategic and creative thinking,
- Ability to work in a collaborative, team-based environment.
Additional Information
Benefits
Benefits: Generous time off, professional development, health care stipend, short-term/long-term disability insurance, and flexible work schedule
The Tennessee Innocence Project is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly value a diverse workforce and inclusive culture for all employees.
How to Apply
HOW TO APPLY
Interested applicants should e-mail as attachments a cover letter, resume, three references, and a writing sample (maximum 30 pages) to Suzanne Lemaire Lozier at suzanne@tninnocence.org. Include “Staff Attorney” in the subject line of your email. Individuals selected for an interview will be contacted directly. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE.
Deadline: Position will be open until filled.
Details
- Date Posted: April 28, 2021
- Type: Full-Time
- Job Function: Legal
- Service Area: Other
- Salary Range: $60,000+ (depending on experience)