Staff Attorney, Innocence Project (Grant-Funded)

University of Wisconsin; United States; On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Gen. paid time off & retirement

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin Law School's Wisconsin Innocence Project (WIP) seeks a Staff Attorney to provide direct legal services on grant-eligible postconviction cases. You will supervise law students, review records, and litigate claims with forensic experts to pursue innocence cases.

The position is grant-funded for four years, initially one year, with potential renewal based on funding and performance. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

Qualifications

• Multiple years of experience in criminal legal practice.
• Strong research, writing, and analytic skills.
• Strong advocacy skills.
• Client-centered approach to legal representation and a demonstrated commitment to indigent defense.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive and travel extensively throughout Wisconsin.
• Admission to the Wisconsin Bar or immediate eligibility to apply to the Wisconsin Bar.

Responsibilities

• Carry a full caseload of grant-eligible cases.
• Investigate post-conviction claims of innocence, including reviewing trial and appellate records, engaging with experts, interviewing witnesses, and requesting records.
• Conduct forensic case review and assess the reliability, validity, and significance of forensic evidence presented in criminal cases.
• Identify, develop, and litigate claims involving disputed, emerging, or unreliable forensic evidence.
• Work with forensic experts, laboratories, and other scientific professionals in the investigation and litigation of postconviction claims.
• Litigate post-conviction claims in state and federal court through written and oral advocacy, including evidentiary hearings and expert witness litigation.
• Supervise and mentor law students in all aspects of postconviction investigation and litigation, including case assessment, legal research, factual investigation, drafting, and client representation.
• Work with legal team to craft investigation and litigation strategies.
• Assist in developing training materials and educational programming related to forensic science and wrongful conviction issues.
• Teach or co-teach clinical courses or other classes.
• Ensure compliance with grant, reporting, and programmatic requirements.

Skills

Criminal law experience

Research skills

Writing skills

Advocacy skills

Indigent defense commitment

Travel driving

Education

J.D.

Job description

The University of Wisconsin Law School's Wisconsin Innocence Project (WIP) seeks a Staff Attorney to provide direct legal services on grant-eligible postconviction cases. You will supervise law students, review records, and litigate claims with forensic experts to pursue innocence cases.

The position is grant-funded for four years, initially one year, with potential renewal based on funding and performance. A comprehensive benefits package is included.