About the Los Angeles Innocence Project
The Los Angeles Innocence Project (LAIP) is a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to exonerating wrongfully convicted individuals and seeking justice for those who are wrongfully incarcerated, as well as advocating for systemic reforms to prevent future injustices. Our work includes direct representation, and policy advocacy. LAIP’s unique partnership with the California Forensic Science Institute at California State University Los Angeles allows us to collaborate with exceptional criminalists and graduate students.
Position Overview
The Senior Staff Attorney will play a critical role in investigating and litigating post-conviction innocence claims, as well as exploring non-litigation means to achieve post-conviction relief if appropriate. This includes, but is not limited to, investigating and litigating a case from inception to resolution, including investigation, preparing and litigating habeas corpus petitions, and evidentiary hearings. The Senior Staff Attorney is also expected to participate in LAIP’s policy reform and fundraising efforts. The Senior Staff Attorney will work collaboratively with LAIP staff, investigators, experts, and external partners, and must be committed to client-centered advocacy and social justice.
Key Responsibilities
• Investigate and litigate post-conviction cases, including drafting motions, briefs, and petitions.
• Conduct prison visits, court appearances, and witness interviews.
• Work with forensic experts and investigators to support case development.
• Meet with representatives from prosecutorial agencies to discuss informal resolution of post-conviction discovery requests, DNA motions, and claims of innocence.
• Evaluate new applications for assistance and investigate innocence claims.
• Support grant-funded initiatives, including reporting and coordination with partners.
Qualifications
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Active bar membership in California.
• Minimum 5–7 years of practice.
• At least 2–3 years of experience in habeas corpus litigation and post-conviction work required; civil rights and/or appellate work is a plus.
• Ability and willingness to travel on a regular basis for in-person meetings, conferences, prison visits, etc.
Key Competencies
• Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Strong factual research and investigative background.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Familiarity with forensic science and criminal justice reform.
• Client-centered approach and empathy.
Please submit the following materials as one combined PDF to [email protected] with “Senior Staff Attorney” in the subject line:
• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing sample
• Contact information for three professional references
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