Korey Wise Innocence Project Attorney
Requisition Number: 70723
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: University Staff
Schedule: Part Time
Posting Close Date: 08-Apr-2026
Date Posted:
Job Summary
The Korey Wise Innocence Project (KWIP) is a project of the University of Colorado Law School, and is currently hiring for an Attorney! The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has provided KWIP with a list of criminal cases where CBI analysts conducted hair microscopy (a forensic practice discredited by DNA testing). One of our staff attorneys has been working through this list of cases. This program has been expanded to examine other forms of discredited forensic evidence, such as bullet comparison and tool mark comparison, which may be discredited through DNA testing.
In 2024, KWIP applied for and was awarded an additional Department of Justice (DOJ) grant to fund additional Staff Attorney positions to continue working on the hair microscopy project and other cases in which DNA testing could establish innocence. This part-time Staff Attorney will supervise the review of CBI hair microscopy cases and similar cases from other state agencies where the potential for DNA testing exists. The role will have primary responsibility for advancing cases identified over the past year as potentially meritorious. Responsibilities may include investigation, coordination with District Attorney's Offices to obtain new testing, filing and litigating DNA motions, investigating post-conviction claims, and drafting and litigating post-conviction motions.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
At the Colorado Law School , we are an engaged, diverse, and welcoming community of students, staff, faculty, and alumni who help one another succeed. Our selective admissions process keeps our student body small, enabling our faculty, staff, alumni, and community to invest deeply in each student's success. Because we take our responsibility to educate and train future lawyers very seriously, our curriculum, research centers, and experiential learning opportunities are crafted to prepare students for success in today's changing legal environment.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
Responsible to screen, develop, and litigate cases that involve unreliable forensic evidence and identify avenues of DNA testing that could demonstrate innocence.
More specifically, the position will:
Gather and review transcripts and other records in cases where discredited forensic analyses may have been introduced at trial or used as leverage to secure a plea agreement. Use these materials to evaluate the role that discredited forensic evidence played in each conviction.
Manage long-term case strategy and problem-solving for assigned cases under review.
For cases approved for investigation and/or new forensic testing, determine appropriate negotiation and litigation strategies.
Manage DNA and other forensic testing to ensure DOJ guidelines are satisfied and resources are used effectively to achieve the best possible results for individual clients.
Draft motions, petitions, appellate briefs, and other filings.
Conduct evidentiary hearings as necessary.
KWIP is a small, close-knit organization. The role is expected to have a limited role in other aspects of the organization's work, including fundraising, communications, event planning, policy work, and office administration.
KWIP is a client-focused office where partnership and collaboration are expected and valued.
What You Should Know
This is a part-time position, and is expected to work 20 hours per week in a hybrid work modality. The position is expected to work during regular business hours, though the role may need to meet outside of regular work hours at times.
Flexibility for the schedule is available for this role, including navigating retirement requirements if needed.
This is a grant-funded position for a term of two and a half years.
What We Can Offer
The salary range for this 50% FTE position is $45,200 - $50,000 annually.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder (https://www.colorado.edu/) , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package (https://www.colorado.edu/jobs/benefits) includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage (https://advantage.cu.edu/campus/cu-boulder) program.
Be Statements
Be resourceful. Be impactful. Be Boulder.
What We Require
Juris Doctor degree.
Licensed to practice law in Colorado or eligible to be admitted on motion to the Colorado bar.
At least three years of litigation experience involving criminal defense or civil rights work.
Valid driver's license.
What You Will Need
Excellent legal research and writing skills.
Strong oral advocacy skills and experience litigating in court.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to work cohesively in a team environment and receive constructive feedback.
Knowledge/experience concerning post-conviction and federal habeas law, DNA and other forensic evidence, applying the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), developing investigative plans, interviewing witnesses and drafting statements/affidavits, and advanced legal research skills.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
A current resume.
A cover letter that describes how your background and experience align with this position.
We may request references at a later time.
Please apply by April 8, 2026 for consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs (http://jobs.colorado.edu/) .
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Korey-Wise-Innocence-Project-Attorney/70723 (https://apptrkr.com/7013069)
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The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
