Assistant Public Defender - Wrongful Convictions Division

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.

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.

Requirements

• Supporting Job Application Documents: Cover letter, resume, and a writing sample.
• 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.

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.
• Experience with general information about the position type and typical hours of work.

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.