Job Description

Job Summary

The Tennessee Innocence Project is seeking a full-time Staff Attorney to assist in investigating and litigating claims of actual innocence made by Tennesseans. This position is in our Memphis office and is not a remote position.

Job Responsibilities

As counsel with TIP’s legal team, this attorney will represent clients claiming actual innocence in postconviction matters to achieve: (1) a vacated conviction or sentence; (2) dismissal of all charges, and (3) release from prison. All levels of experience (including 2026 law school graduates) are invited to apply. Candidates should highlight any experiences in criminal justice or complex litigation that set them apart.

Launched in February 2019 as the state’s first full-time innocence organization, the Tennessee Innocence Project (TIP) is a 501c3 nonprofit law firm working to free the wrongfully convicted across the state of Tennessee. With offices in Nashville and Memphis, TIP works to investigate and litigate claims of actual innocence on behalf of incarcerated Tennesseans.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Admission to the Tennessee Bar required

• Ability to travel throughout Tennessee required

• Forensic science background preferred

• All experience levels will be considered

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Excellent written and oral communication skills;

• Ability to set and follow internal deadlines (self-motivated and self-disciplined);

• Strong organizational abilities and time management skills;

• Dedication to indigent defense and TIP’s mission, and

• Focus and retention skills to investigate and analyze complex cases.

PREFERRED COMPETENCIES 

• In-court experience conducting preliminary hearings, oral arguments or evidentiary hearings;

• Experience or training in actual innocence litigation;

• Experience preparing complex petitions or briefs in state or federal courts; and

• Understanding of Tennessee’s post-conviction remedies.

Additional Information

Benefits

Benefits Include: Professional development, health insurance, short-term/long-term disability insurance, optional 401k, flexible work schedule, paid time off, parental leave, sabbatical, etc.

How to Apply

Applicants should e-mail as attachments a cover letter, resume, and three references to Hayden MacMath hayden@tninnocence.org. Include “Staff Attorney – Memphis” in the subject line. Applicants may attach an optional writing sample (no longer than 45 pages). Individuals selected for an interview will be contacted directly. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE. This is a rolling application process. Qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews on a rolling basis.

The Tennessee Innocence Project is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly value a diverse workforce and inclusive culture for all employees.

Details

• Date Posted: August 14, 2026
• Type: Full-Time
• Job Function: Legal
• Service Area: Government
• Start Date: 10/01/2026
• Salary Range: 65,000-70,000
• Working Hours: 9am-5pm

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