Georgia Innocence Project
Organization Type: Nonprofit
Available Semesters: Fall, Summer
Practice Areas:Criminal Defense, Post-Conviction
Georgia Innocence Project (GIP) is an independent nonprofit organization that works to correct and prevent wrongful convictions in Georgia. Collaborating with a network of pro bono lawyers, volunteers, and students, GIP attorneys and staff conduct investigations into criminal convictions where modern DNA testing was not available at the time of trial, or where there is other newly available evidence. In cases where there is a compelling claim of actual innocence, GIP litigates to secure the release of the person who was wrongfully convicted. We do not charge for our services. GIP helps prevent future wrongful convictions by raising awareness through educational initiatives and by advocating for policy and legislative reform. By remedying the causes of wrongful conviction, the criminal legal system is improved for everyone. GIP also works with our freed clients to connect them with resources to reintegrate into society and to create a supportive community.
Law Externs will conduct work under the supervision of one of GIP’s staff attorneys, and for administrative purposes will report to the project’s Program Manager. Students will have the opportunity to participate in various stages of post-conviction innocence work, including preliminary case research, analyzing appeals, filing open records requests, reviewing and summarizing case documents, conducting legal research into cases, and preparing for hearings - or possibly appearing in the courtroom (if certified.) Students may also be assigned ad-hoc projects from time to time (e.g., policy-related research projects) at the direction of their supervisor.
For more information on the Georgia Innocence Project, visit our website at www.georgiainnocenceproject.org.
STUDENT QUALIFICATIONS
Prerequisites:
- Skill in the areas of research, legal writing, and case review.
- Students who are detail-oriented, strong writers, effective communicators, and receptive to giving and sharing feedback.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital to joining our team and we seek placement of individuals who will ensure these principles guide their work.
Preferences:
- Coursework in criminal or appellate procedure, racial justice, wrongful convictions.
- Experience in social justice, nonprofit work, and legal services.
NO ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS