About the job
The Innocence Project focuses on overturning wrongful convictions and advocating for a more just legal system. Since its founding, the organization has helped over 250 people regain their freedom, using DNA and other scientific methods to challenge convictions. Its efforts have led to significant reforms at both state and federal levels. The organization is dedicated to anti-racism and relies on scientific evidence to drive improvements in the justice system.
Role overview
The Paralegal for the Post-Conviction Litigation (PCL) Clinic supports attorneys working to free individuals who have been wrongfully convicted. This role involves a mix of legal research, document drafting, and case file management. The paralegal also handles urgent litigation needs and helps organize departmental resources.
Beyond routine paralegal duties, this position calls for creative problem-solving and sound judgment. The paralegal collaborates with attorneys, interacts with clients, assists with investigations, and may work with other departments, such as Communications.
Key responsibilities
- Conduct legal research and draft documents for active cases
- Manage and maintain case files
- Respond to urgent litigation requests as they arise
- Organize departmental resources and support case management
- Collaborate with attorneys and law clinic students
- Assist with the year-long legal clinic and summer internship program
- Supervise and train interns and volunteers as needed
- May work with other departments, such as Communications
Reporting and collaboration
This position reports directly to a PCL attorney. The paralegal works closely with staff in the PCL Department and law clinic students, and provides support for both the legal clinic and internship program.
Work eligibility and location
- Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States
- The Innocence Project does not sponsor visas or participate in e-verify
Work schedule and hybrid policy
- Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week
- Hybrid model: three days in the office, two days remote
- All staff are required in the office on Wednesdays (anchor day)
- The number of in-office days may change in the future
