The Investigations Supervisor is a part-time position and core member of the Gail Anderson Cañizares Innocence Clinic, a live-client clinic and experiential learning program. Working in close collaboration with the Clinic Director, the Investigations Supervisor supports both case development and student training. The position encompasses two integrated areas of responsibility: (1) supervision and training of students, and (2) investigative development and case support. Through these functions, the Investigations Supervisor enhances student educational experience, strengthens case outcomes, and supports the continued growth of the Clinic.
This unit provides experiential education by operating eight live client legal clinics, the International Practice Lab, 1 practicum, externships, and other clinical legal education opportunities that allow students to learn both the theory and practice of law in context. Clinic students gain real-world legal experience by assuming the role of the lawyer under the expert guidance of members of the law faculty, allowing them to hone their legal skills and delve into particular areas of law. They work with actual clients and on real cases, gaining an understanding of the legal system and its participants and an appreciation of issues of professional responsibility.
The Gail Anderson Cañizares Innocence Clinic is transitioning to a year-long model to represent clients in active post-conviction cases, its work will increasingly depend on the quality and rigor of student-led investigation. Students in the Gail Anderson Cañizares Innocence Clinic represent individuals who have been wrongfully convicted in Tennessee of crimes they did not commit. In the early stages of a case, students review the trial and appellate record, evaluate the claim of factual innocence, and identify avenues for developing new evidence of innocence. Once the clinic accepts a case for representation, students work on all aspects of the case – from developing investigation plans, to drafting motions for post-conviction relief, to participating in evidentiary hearings. In innocence organizations, investigative work is conducted by trained investigators working closely with attorneys. In a law school clinic, that same work is carried out by students and must therefore be taught, supervised, and refined in real time.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Supervision and Training of Students
• Supervise law students in all aspects of investigative work on Clinic cases
• Help facilitate regular case supervision meetings, particularly those focused on investigative strategy and execution
• Provide ongoing feedback on student work, including:
o organization and analysis of case materials
o development of investigative plans
o witness interview preparation and technique
o drafting of investigative memoranda and written work product
• Accompany and support students in fieldwork where appropriate, including witness interviews and prison visits
• Maintain continuity on active investigations across student cohorts, ensuring that institutional knowledge and case progress are preserved as students transition in and out of the Clinic
Investigative Development and Case Support
• Work with the Clinic Director to develop, refine, and execute investigative strategies in active and prospective cases
• Ensure that investigative work is thorough, well-documented, and aligned with legal standards and evidentiary requirements
• Review and synthesize case materials, including trial records, police files, and newly developed evidence
• Support early-stage case screening and evaluation
Supervisory Relationships:
This position reports administratively and functionally to the Gail Anderson Cañizares Innocence Clinic Director. This position supervises law students in all aspects of investigative work on clinic cases.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education or equivalent experience is required
• A minimum of 2 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified, or equivalent experience in translatable work is necessary.
• Working legal knowledge and demonstrated understanding of federal and local laws is necessary.
• Familiarity with current best practices and a working knowledge of emerging issues are necessary
• Excellent judgment with the ability to manage highly sensitive, confidential data and information is necessary.
• Ability to exhibit a positive attitude and to collaborate with coworkers, students, faculty and staff tactfully and courteously to maintain effective service-oriented relationships is necessary
• Ability to communicate effectively and follow oral and written instructions with the ability to effectively convey information with appropriate sensitivity is necessary.
• Strong collaboration, innovation, and leadership skills are necessary
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