Innocence Project Delaware was established in 2018 with the mission of providing pro bono services to investigate and seek relief for victims of wrongful convictions in Delaware.  The organization also seeks to address and remedy the causes for wrongful convictions, provides post-exoneration support to individuals who have been proven innocent, and educates the public about potential criminal justice reforms related to wrongful convictions, exonerations, and access to justice. Innocence Delaware is a member of the National Innocence Network.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to): 

Essential duties:

• Manage docket of individuals seeking relief from wrongful conviction

• Craft litigation strategy

• Lead litigation teams including with pro-bono partners, local counsel, and law students

• Direct factual post-conviction re-investigations

• Compose motions & briefs in connection with client representation

• Conduct evidentiary hearings

• Conduct oral argument before trial and appellate courts

Secondary responsibilities:

• Represent clients facing retrial after vacatur of conviction

• Assist with the Widener University Innocence Clinic

• Improve upon case tracking processes

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

Required:

• A Juris Doctor degree. 

• Admitted to the Delaware Bar or be willing to take and pass the Delaware Bar within one year of hiring.

• 3+ years of litigation experience on behalf of indigent defendants or others accused/convicted of crimes

• Strong research, writing, and analytic skills

• Strong advocacy skills

• Client-centered approach to legal representation and demonstrated commitment to indigent defense and working to change the criminal legal system.

Preferred:

• Experience in post-conviction, habeas corpus, and/or federal civil rights litigation

• Working knowledge of DNA and/or other forensic disciplines

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:  

• Nights and weekends may be required as needed.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.

Widener University requires all prospective employees to provide proof of taking the primary vaccination series against COVID-19 prior to employment or apply and be approved for a medical/religious exemption. Offers may be rescinded if the new employee does not provide proof of taking the primary vaccination series in a timely manner.

Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington. For more information about the university, please visit our website at www.widener.edu.

EOE M/F/V/D