Staff & Intake Attorney, Illinois Innocence Project, CSPL

Posting Category: E

Application deadline: 10/12/2026

Minimum Starting Salary: $80,000 annually

Summary: Reporting to the Legal Director of the Illinois Innocence Project, the Staff & Intake Attorney will oversee the IIP case intake team and process and provide direct case representation, including overseeing file and case reviews, investigations, expert analysis, and litigation on behalf of IIP clients. This position is based in Springfield, IL.

Duties & Responsibilities: Oversee the IIP case intake team and the referral of promising cases to the evaluation team; in collaboration with IIP staff, audit current case evaluation processes; oversee the development and implementation of new and/or revised processes to improve the evaluation of and response to applications for assistance according to IIP case acceptance standards. Assist the legal team in the management of case investigative efforts, including following up on case reviews and selection; interviewing and visiting inmates and witnesses; retrieving and analyzing pertinent case information; and working with and reviewing the work product of student interns. Take necessary legal actions on behalf of clients, such as the drafting of motions and other legal documents to be submitted to the court and appearing in court on behalf of clients. Participate in case review and case selection with IIP staff and student interns. Present case closings to IIP Legal Director. Make public and private presentations about the work of the Illinois Innocence Project. Manage intake and case data for purposes of fulfilling grant reporting requirements and other measurable goals.

Minimum Qualifications: Licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois.

Preferred Qualifications: Litigation experience in post-conviction and/or criminal defense.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Understanding of and commitment to the mission and programs of the Illinois Innocence Project and to issues of criminal justice. Ability to participate productively on multidisciplinary project teams made up of faculty, staff, undergraduate and law students, attorneys, investigators, experts, law enforcement, and prosecutors Strong interpersonal skills and evidence of ability to deal with external constituencies Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability and willingness to travel (with a valid driver's license) frequently within Illinois and occasionally out of state. Regular travel around the state is required. Ability to work efficiently from a remote location as dictated by health or other requirements, and/or for part of the week

Physical Demands: Sitting : Frequently

Working Conditions: Atmospheric Conditions : Occasionally

Travel Requirements: 50% Regular travel within Illinois is required. Must possess a valid driver's license. Employment Policies and other information: The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their real or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations. Visit University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Statement The University of Illinois System conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with state and federal law. The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit Policy on Consideration of Sexual Misconduct in Prior Employment. As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility. This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Benefits and Perks: Health