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Wrongful Conviction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Innocence Project

Policy Counsel

Manhattan, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who ...

Innocence Project

Policy Counsel

Manhattan, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who ...

Innocence Project

Policy Counsel

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$108.38 - $127.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who ...

Innocence Project

Policy Counsel

New York, NY · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who ...

Innocence Project

Policy Counsel

Manhattan, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who ...

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Wrongful Conviction information

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How much do wrongful conviction jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for wrongful conviction in the United States is $64,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wrongful conviction?

A Wrongful Conviction job typically involves working to investigate, challenge, and overturn wrongful convictions. Professionals in this field may include lawyers, investigators, nonprofit advocates, and academic researchers who analyze cases, gather evidence, and advocate for policy reforms. These roles often focus on post-conviction relief, DNA testing, witness recantations, and legal appeals. Many wrongful conviction jobs are found in innocence organizations, public defender offices, or research institutions.

What are the daily responsibilities for professionals working on wrongful conviction cases?

Professionals in wrongful conviction roles often review trial records, gather and analyze new evidence, and conduct interviews with witnesses and experts. They collaborate closely with legal teams, forensic analysts, and advocacy organizations to build strong cases for exoneration. In addition, they may draft legal filings, prepare reports, and present findings in court proceedings. This varied work environment requires effective teamwork and a strong commitment to justice, as every case demands diligence and a thorough investigation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to work on wrongful conviction cases?

To excel in wrongful conviction work, you need a deep understanding of criminal law, case analysis, and investigative techniques, typically supported by a law degree or relevant legal experience. Familiarity with legal research databases, forensic tools, and case management software is highly valuable. Strong interpersonal skills, perseverance, and attention to detail set top professionals in this field apart. These capabilities are essential to successfully identify and address miscarriages of justice and advocate for the wrongly accused.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Wrongful Conviction jobs?

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What states have the most Wrongful Conviction jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wrongful Conviction jobs include:

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Wrongful Conviction jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wrongful Conviction job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,991 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender - Wrongful Convictions Division

Harris County

Houston, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Harris County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Description About the Wrongful Convictions Division: The Harris County Public Defender's Office is committed to providing high-quality, client-centered representation to individuals accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford counsel. The Wrongful Convictions Division works to identify, investigate, and litigate claims of actual innocence and wrongful convictions through post-conviction legal advocacy. Position Overview: Working collaboratively with members of the defense team, the Assistant Public Defender is responsible for investigating claims of actual innocence and representing clients in post-conviction proceedings, including applications for writs of habeas corpus and Chapter 64 motions for forensic DNA testing.

This position requires strong analytical abilities, exceptional legal research and writing skills, and a commitment to uncovering facts that support post-conviction relief. Duties and Responsibilities: Review and evaluate claims of actual innocence and wrongful conviction. Conduct comprehensive factual and legal investigations in post-conviction cases.

Research and analyze complex constitutional, procedural, forensic, and evidentiary issues. Draft applications for writs of habeas corpus, Chapter 64 motions, legal memoranda, appellate briefs, and other pleadings. Represent clients in post-conviction proceedings, hearings, and related litigation.

Identify, locate, and analyze records, evidence, witness statements, forensic materials, and other information relevant to innocence claims. Collaborate with investigators, experts, and support staff to develop investigative strategies and case theories. Maintain regular communication with clients, family members, experts, and other stakeholders.

Stay informed regarding developments in post-conviction law. Maintain accurate case records and documentation in accordance with office policies. Perform other duties as assigned.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net Requirements Supporting Job Application Documents: Applicants should provide a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample with their application. Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Demonstrated legal research, analysis, and writing skills

Ability to independently manage complex legal matters and investigations. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary defense team environment.

Commitment to client-centered representation and indigent defense. Licensure: Licensed to practice law in Texas or eligible for admission. NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application.

You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications. Preferences Experience handling post-conviction writ litigation.

Experience litigating Chapter 64 motions for forensic DNA testing. Familiarity with forensic science, DNA evidence, and wrongful conviction issues. Experience conducting complex factual investigations.

Experience drafting appellate or post-conviction pleadings. General Information Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Regular Full-time Hours will be discussed during departmental interview. Salary: Depends on Qualifications Based on 26 Pay Periods Plus, benefits Employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

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About Harris County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Harris County is the third largest county in the United States with more than 4.7 million residents. There are four precincts in Harris County. The four elected commissioners, along with an elected county judge, serve as members of the Harris County Commissioners Court, the administrative head of the county's government.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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