Chief of the Conviction Review Unit - Brooklyn District Attorney's Office : Job Details

Located in the vibrant and diverse borough of Brooklyn, New York City's most populous borough, the Kings County District Attorney's Office serves a community of over 2.8 million residents with a steadfast dedication to justice, integrity, and fairness. As one of the largest prosecutor's offices in the nation, our work reflects the energy and complexity of the borough we proudly call home. From its bustling urban hubs to its historic neighborhoods, Brooklyn is a rich tapestry of cultures, ideas, and opportunities, and our office embodies that spirit in every aspect of our mission.

Under the leadership of District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, the Kings County District Attorney's Office is nationally recognized for its leadership in modern criminal justice practices. We are focused on fostering public safety, promoting justice, and building trust with the communities we serve. Supported by a dedicated team of over 1,200 attorneys, investigators, and staff, we are committed to innovative solutions and strengthening fairness within the justice system.

Our office is proud to cultivate an inclusive and supportive workplace by recruiting and retaining exceptional professionals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring our team represents the community we serve. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are dedicated to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination or harassment, where everyone can thrive regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, or other identities.

N.Y. Public Officers Law § 3(1) requires that all persons holding civil office be citizens of the United States. Accordingly, all Assistant District Attorneys must be U.S. Citizens and New York State residents upon commencement of their employment.

Position Overview

The Kings County District Attorney's Office seeks a dedicated and experienced attorney to serve as the Chief of the Conviction Review Unit (CRU). This role offers the opportunity to lead the nation's largest and most effective unit dedicated to investigating credible claims of wrongful convictions, ensuring fairness, justice, and public safety.

Brooklyn's CRU has exonerated over 500 individuals through rigorous reinvestigations that examine evidence with fresh eyes. The unit uses cutting-edge forensic and social science methods, consults with experts, and re-interviews witnesses to uncover the truth. By addressing potential miscarriages of justice, the CRU strengthens public trust in the legal system and ensures that the right person is held accountable for violent crimes.

As Chief of the CRU, you will oversee complex investigations, collaboratively lead a skilled team of attorneys and investigators, and recommend appropriate actions to the District Attorney. Beyond case reviews, the CRU shares its expertise nationwide, helping other offices establish or enhance conviction review programs, and trains Brooklyn prosecutors on common causes of wrongful convictions.

This position offers a unique opportunity for a skilled trial attorney with a passion for investigative work and a commitment to justice. By addressing and learning from past errors, the CRU plays a critical role in enhancing public safety and confidence in the justice system.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all investigations conducted by CRU.
• Supervise the collection and analysis of case materials, including trial records, witness statements, and new evidence.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and recommendations for the District Attorney based on completed investigations.
• Facilitate collaborative internal discussions to determine appropriate next steps in each case.
• Represent CRU in public forums, professional associations, and community engagements to advocate for transparency and reform.
• Develop and implement innovative strategies to enhance the unit's operations and impact.

Essential Qualifications

• Licensed attorney eligible to practice in New York.
• Minimum of five years of post-J.D. experience litigating criminal cases as a prosecutor or defense attorney.
• Exceptional legal writing, research, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage complex investigations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of New York Penal and Criminal Procedure Laws.
• Proven leadership experience with a record of successfully managing diverse teams.
• Strong organizational skills to oversee multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent public speaking and presentation abilities.
• Willingness to work in a predominantly digital office environment.
• Flexibility to travel for work as needed.