Main Office: 199 Water Street | New York City | NY | 10038
Website: https://legalaidnyc.org/programs-projects-units/wrongful-conviction-unit
Biggest office
New York City
The Wrongful Conviction Unit: Fighting for Justice and Freedom
In the realm of criminal law, few things are as devastating as a wrongful conviction. Innocent individuals are stripped of their freedom, their reputations tarnished, and their lives forever altered. However, there is a glimmer of hope for those who find themselves in this unimaginable situation - The Wrongful Conviction Unit.
As the nation's largest provider of public defender services, The Wrongful Conviction Unit is a beacon of justice, dedicated to righting the wrongs of the criminal justice system. Unlike any other New York City public defender, this unit handles trial, appellate, and post-conviction cases for clients accused of criminal conduct. With a track record of numerous successful outcomes in wrongful conviction cases, they have become a symbol of hope for the wrongfully convicted.
The creation of The Wrongful Conviction Unit was a significant milestone in the fight against injustice. Prior to its establishment, there was no dedicated funding for a unit solely focused on litigating wrongful convictions. This unit was born out of a deep commitment to address the plight of prisoners who have exhausted all avenues of defense and are still fighting for their freedom and to clear their names.
At the heart of The Wrongful Conviction Unit's work lies intensive investigations. Their team of dedicated professionals leaves no stone unturned as they seek out witnesses who were never spoken to or who now claim to have given false testimony. They delve into cases where law enforcement may have coerced or enticed witnesses to testify falsely against their clients. Additionally, they meticulously search for forensic evidence that can be tested, such as DNA and fingerprint evidence, as well as physical evidence that may not have been presented during the original conviction, such as cellphone records and video recordings.
The Wrongful Conviction Unit also strives to collaborate with conviction review units in different district attorney offices. By working together, they aim to ensure that justice is served and that innocent individuals are set free. When necessary, they are prepared to bring litigation in both state and federal courts, leaving no avenue unexplored in their pursuit of justice.
Currently, The Wrongful Conviction Unit is comprised of a small but mighty team. Led by a supervising attorney with over 30 years of trial and appellate experience, their expertise is unparalleled. They are supported by an experienced investigator, who brings a unique perspective as both a retired NYPD detective and a Legal Aid investigator. Rounding out the team is a highly knowledgeable paralegal, who has spent a decade assisting inmates with the very types of motions that the unit will be bringing to court. As the workload continues to expand, the unit has begun to avail themselves of interns, and they have plans to collaborate with volunteers from law firms in the future.
Joining The Wrongful Conviction Unit is not just a job; it is a calling. Attorneys and staff have the opportunity to be part of a team that fights tirelessly for justice, giving a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless. The satisfaction of knowing that their work has the potential to change lives and right the injustices of the criminal justice system is immeasurable.
In addition to the inherent rewards of working at The Wrongful Conviction Unit, there are numerous benefits to joining the firm. Attorneys and staff have the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated professionals in the field. The unit's commitment to growth means that there are ample opportunities for career advancement and professional development. Furthermore, the unit's collaboration with law firms and volunteers provides a unique networking opportunity, allowing individuals to expand their professional connections and make a lasting impact on the lives of the wrongfully convicted.
In conclusion, The Wrongful Conviction Unit is a force to be reckoned with in the fight against wrongful convictions. With their unwavering dedication, tireless investigations, and commitment to justice, they are changing lives and reshaping the criminal justice system. For attorneys and staff who are passionate about making a difference and fighting for justice, joining The Wrongful Conviction Unit is an opportunity of a lifetime.
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