1

Innocence Project Innocence Project Jobs in California

Innocence Project Innocence Project information

See California salary details

$26.9K

$83.8K

$150.8K

How much do innocence project innocence project jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for innocence project innocence project in California is $83,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,816.00 and $105,267.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What resources help felons find jobs?

The Innocence Project supports felons in finding employment by providing legal assistance, advocating for fair hiring practices, and connecting individuals with reentry programs. Job seekers with criminal records can also access specialized job placement services, workforce development programs, and training that focus on skill-building and reintegration into the workforce.

Do people who work for the Innocence Project get paid?

Employees at the Innocence Project, including attorneys and staff, are typically paid for their work. The organization employs both full-time staff and volunteers, with paid positions often requiring relevant legal or advocacy experience. Compensation varies depending on the role and experience level.

What kind of work does the Innocence Project do?

The Innocence Project employs legal professionals, investigators, and researchers to review and analyze wrongful conviction cases, often using DNA evidence to exonerate innocent individuals. Their work involves case investigation, legal advocacy, and collaboration with forensic experts to promote justice and reform the criminal justice system.

What is the difference between Innocence Project Innocence Project vs Public Defender?

AspectInnocence ProjectPublic Defender
CredentialsLegal education, law degree, bar admissionLegal education, law degree, bar admission
Work EnvironmentNonprofit, research-focused, case investigationPublic sector, courtroom, client advocacy
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, criminal justice reformGovernment, criminal defense
Common Search IntentUnderstanding roles in wrongful conviction casesLegal defense for indigent clients

The Innocence Project and Public Defender roles both require legal credentials and involve criminal justice work. However, the Innocence Project primarily focuses on investigating wrongful convictions within nonprofit settings, while Public Defenders provide courtroom defense for indigent clients on behalf of the government. Both roles are vital in the justice system but differ in their focus, employer, and work environment.

What is the Innocence Project?

The Innocence Project is a nonprofit legal organization that works to exonerate wrongfully convicted individuals through DNA testing and to reform the criminal justice system to prevent future injustices. Founded in 1992 at the Cardozo School of Law, the Innocence Project has helped free hundreds of people who were wrongfully imprisoned. In addition to legal representation, the organization advocates for policy changes to improve forensic science, eyewitness identification procedures, and access to post-conviction DNA testing.

What are some common challenges faced by case analysts at the Innocence Project, and how do they typically overcome them?

Case analysts at the Innocence Project often encounter challenges such as limited access to old case files, uncooperative witnesses, or missing evidence. They overcome these obstacles by leveraging strong research skills, collaborating closely with legal teams, and utilizing investigative techniques to uncover new leads. Building relationships with law enforcement and forensic experts is also crucial for navigating barriers and advancing cases. Persistence, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving are key traits that help analysts succeed in this impactful role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Innocence Project Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Innocence Project Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the state bar, and strong expertise in criminal law and post-conviction litigation. Familiarity with legal research databases, DNA testing protocols, and case management systems is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, communication skills, and a deep commitment to justice help attorneys excel in advocating for the wrongfully convicted. These skills are crucial for effectively navigating complex legal processes, building compelling cases, and achieving successful exonerations.

Does the Innocence Project need volunteers?

The Innocence Project often relies on volunteers to support various activities such as research, outreach, and administrative tasks. Volunteers typically need strong research skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to the organization's mission, with opportunities available for different levels of experience. Interested individuals should check the organization's website for current volunteer opportunities and requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Innocence Project Innocence Project jobs in California? For Innocence Project Innocence Project jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Innocence Project Innocence Project jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Innocence Project Innocence Project jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Innocence Project Innocence Project jobs? Cities in California with the most Innocence Project Innocence Project job openings:
Infographic showing various Innocence Project Innocence Project job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,841 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Clinical Supervising Staff Attorney, Loyola Project for the Innocent

Clinical Supervising Staff Attorney, Loyola Project for the Innocent

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Supervising Staff Attorney will work with students to investigate, evaluate and litigate claims of wrongful conviction and/or innocence. This is a full-time staff position. The Supervising Staff Attorney will be responsible for case investigation and litigation, student supervision and mentorship, assisting with legislative advocacy and strategy, and public and professional education.
The position involves investigating and litigating both new and existing Loyola Project for the Innocent cases. Counsel will be responsible for developing and implementing investigation plans and litigation strategies, which often includes compiling case records, evaluating police reports and other crucial case documents, locating and interviewing witnesses, and drafting witness statements.
Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities
Investigate and litigate cases on behalf of the clinic. The Supervising Staff Attorney will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing investigation plans and litigation strategies, which often includes compiling case records, evaluating police reports and other crucial case documents, locating and interviewing witnesses, and drafting witness statements. The supervising attorney will be responsible for drafting legal memoranda, motions, petitions for writs of habeas corpus and other legal documents, and participate in evidentiary hearings and court appearances throughout Southern California. The Supervising Staff Attorney will maintain attorney client relationships in accordance with the rules of professional responsibility applicable to attorneys practicing in California.
The Supervising Staff Attorney will assist in supervising LPI students, including by holding weekly meetings with the clinic law students and provide constructive, timely, and specific feedback on all legal work.
The Supervising Staff Attorney will work with the Director(s) to identify annual legislative priorities, participate in the drafting of legislation, fact sheets, testimony, op-eds, or other advocacy materials. The Supervising Staff Attorney may also be asked to conduct presentations for the professional community and/or the public and participate in other LPI-hosted events.
Some travel is required for case investigation and client meetings. The Law School reserves the right to add or change duties at any time. There will be other required duties as assigned.
Perform other related duties.
Loyola Marymount University Expectations
Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.
Requisite Qualifications
  • A Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.

  • Active membership in the California State Bar and licensed to practice law in California for a minimum of two years to meet State Bar requirements for supervising certified law students.

  • Minimum of five years of relevant law practice experience, including experience in post-conviction litigation; relevant clinical experience during law school may be considered.

  • Ability to work collaboratively and handle multiple demands in a busy work environment while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and discretion.

  • Strong case management, legal research, and writing skills.

  • Must be able to work with a diverse group of constituencies from different cultural, geographic, and economic backgrounds, including individuals with criminal history and history of severe trauma.

  • Professionalism is paramount, including an ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, and seek guidance when appropriate.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.
Reasonable Expected Salary - $105,000. Salary commensurate with education and experience.
#HEJ# #HERC#
Staff Term (Fixed Term)
Salary range
$87,000.00 - $117,500.00 Salary commensurate with education and experience.
Please note that this position may not be eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit www.lmu.edu for more information.)
LMU is committed to providing equal access to employment opportunities and ensuring a comprehensive recruitment and selection process for all applicants.
Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the application, interview, or selection process may contact Human Resources at hr@lmu.edu or by phone at (310) 338-2723. Applicants who use relay services or other assistive communication technologies are welcome to utilize those services when contacting Human Resources.
When contacting Human Resources, please include the job posting number, title of the position and department for which you are applying. Applicants are not required to disclose the nature of a disability or provide medical information when requesting an accommodation during the recruitment process.
LMU will work with applicants in a timely and interactive process to identify and provide reasonable accommodations consistent with applicable federal and state law.