LAW 747 - Innocence Project Clinic

Students in the Innocence Project Clinic will have the opportunity to participate in the legal investigation and research of inmate claims of actual innocence. Using primary sources including police and forensic reports, court pleadings, transcripts, appellate briefs and opinions, students will research and prepare written summaries of the cases referred to the Clinic by the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project (MAIP). Student analysis of cases will also be used as a basis for MAIP to determine which cases to undertake. Students will have the opportunity to conduct interviews of inmates and possible witnesses, as well as other preparatory case work with private investigators, forensics experts and attorneys. Students may have the opportunity to provide assistance to lawyers handling the representation of MAIP clients. The Clinic’s focus will include DNA evidence, investigative activities, and post-conviction remedies and procedures, with in-class simulations. The clinic is limited to third-year students eligible for Third-Year Practice.