Join Our Team
POST-CONVICTION STAFF ATTORNEY
The Capital Area Private Defender Service (CAPDS) is a non-profit dedicated to improving indigent defense based in Austin, Texas. CAPDS’s post-conviction unit, which includes The Forensic Project, reviews and litigates wrongful conviction cases in Travis County. Recently, CAPDS received a grant from the United States Department of Justice to expand its post-conviction program. CAPDS seeks a mid-level staff attorney to join its Wrongful Conviction Project. The grant will fund the staff attorney position for approximately two years.
The staff attorney will work to identify, investigate, and litigate wrongful conviction cases in Travis County. The ideal candidate is a highly organized and self-directed individual with criminal defense/innocence project/post-conviction experience and a demonstrated commitment to excellent, client-centered representation.
The ideal candidate possesses the following qualifications:
The candidate must be licensed to practice law in Texas by the start date;
Minimum of three years of post-conviction/innocence work experience;
Demonstrated commitment to client-centered indigent defense;
Knowledge of national standards for defense investigation;
Demonstrated high-quality research and writing skills;
Demonstrated diligence and initiative to set and accomplish goals and meet deadlines;
Experience working with diverse populations;
Knowledge of Texas habeas law and practice;
Willingness to travel; and
Fluency in Spanish is preferred.
Primary responsibilities:
Review and screen cases for indication of wrongful conviction;
Conduct thorough post-conviction investigations;
Engage in post-conviction discovery through public records requests and motions practice;
Draft pleadings and briefs;
Communicate with clients;
Maintain highest standards of advocacy, professional responsibility, client-centered representation and best practices in all areas of post-conviction review and representation;
Keep abreast of legal opinions, legislative updates, forensic science developments and evolving best practices; and
Document and track time and reporting milestones.
The salary range for this position is $80,000 – 85,000 depending on experience. Generous benefits package includes health, dental, retirement, and other benefits. This is a two-year position that is subject to renewal.
To apply, please email Stacie Lieberman, Director of Post-Conviction Programs, at jobs@capds.org. Please include in one document a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and professional references. Only electronic submissions will be accepted. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, however priority will be given to applicants who apply before May 20, 2023. CAPDS is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All candidates are encouraged to apply.