Forensic Justice Project (“FJP”) is accepting applications from recent law graduates and graduating third-year law students for a fully-funded one-year fellowship with the possibility of renewal. The position will provide recent graduates with a unique opportunity to learn about forensic evidence and how to litigate issues specific to forensics in criminal cases. The fellow will work directly with experienced attorneys at FJP to gain practical, hands-on experience and mentorship.
FJP is a nonprofit organization based in Oregon. The goal of FJP is to prevent wrongful convictions before they happen, or correct wrongful convictions after they happen. FJP attorneys focus on forensic evidence and work to prove the innocence of individuals who have been wrongfully convicted. FJP attorneys also step into criminal cases to challenge faulty or misleading forensic evidence at any stage, whether pre-trial or post-conviction, and regardless of guilt or innocence.
FJP attorneys may also conduct trainings for other lawyers to address forensics in criminal cases, appear as amicus curiae to help educate the courts on issues that relate to forensics, and work to change the law through policy reform.
FJP staff work remotely, and applicants from any location are welcome to apply. Applicants should, however, be able to travel to and around the state of Oregon for courtroom appearances and as otherwise necessary.
FJP staff work as professionals and, as such, establish their own hours to ensure the highest standards for quality and thoroughness in all aspects of the work.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Juris Doctorate degree with up to three years of experience;
- Admitted to practice law in Oregon (or willingness to secure admission at the next available opportunity);
- Excellent analytic, research, writing, and oral advocacy skills;
- Demonstrated commitment to criminal justice reform;
- Preference for applicants considering future role in public defense;
- Ability to communicate and work cooperatively with a wide range of people from different backgrounds;
- Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and working independently; and
- Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office, Zoom, and cloud-based systems. FJP operates in a primarily paperless environment, and all employees are expected to work on cloud-based systems by following established protocols for creating and storing information.
COMPENSATION
Annual Salary: $60,000+ depending on experience
Benefits: Monthly stipend for medical/vision/dental insurance; paid sick leave, personal time, and vacation days; flexible work schedule; FJP-provided computer/printer/scanner for remote work.
To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Janis Puracal, Executive Director, at jpuracal@forensicjusticeproject.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. FJP is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages candidates of all identities, orientations, experiences, and communities to apply. To learn more about FJP, visit www.forensicjusticeproject.org