Kierra Hickerson
Baton Rouge
Summary
Graduating Criminal Justice senior with demonstrated success supporting post-conviction litigation through DNA-derived evidence analysis, legal research, and evidentiary review for wrongfully convicted individuals. Contributed to innocence based advocacy through research , evidentiary analysis, and legal writing as a law clerk with the Innocence Project Of New Orleans. Research Assistant with experience examining incarceration outcomes, reentry barriers, and mental health policy. Aspiring future law student seeking to build foundational legal skills in preparation fro law school and long=term public interest practice.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
LAW CLERK / RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Innocence Project New Orleans-Internship
05.2025 - 10.2025
- Conducted in-depth legal research on wrongful conviction jurisprudence, due process violations, and evidentiary standards, directly informing ligation decisions that resulted in a successful exoneration.
- Analyzed DNA- derived profiles, laboratory reports, and chain-in-custody documentation to identify evidentiary weaknesses and support innocence claims.
- Researched case law related to wrongful convictions and due process violations.
- Drafted and refined motions, pleadings, affidavits, and memoranda used in active post-conviction cases.
- Synthesized trial transcripts, investigative records, and forensic findings into clear written analyses for attorneys.
- Strengthened case development by supporting records acquisition, transcript review , and evidentiary organization essential to litigation success.
CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT
Peristyle Residence
03.2017 - 08.2022
- Assisted residents with daily living activities, promoting independence and dignity.
- Provided emotional support to residents and families, fostering a compassionate environment.
- Conducted regular assessments of resident needs, adapting care strategies as required.
OFFICE ASSISTANT / RECEPTIONIST
Total Health Clinic
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Managed patient scheduling and appointment confirmations, ensuring efficient clinic operations.
- Coordinated communication between medical staff and patients to enhance service delivery.
- Assisted in maintaining accurate patient records using electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Streamlined office procedures, improving workflow efficiency and reducing administrative delays.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Southern University of New Orleans
05.2026
Affiliations
- CILI COHORT #6 FELLOW
- Selected for a competitive leadership fellowship focused on civic engagement and professional development
Certification
- CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA) — June 2017
- CPR CERTIFICATION — June 2017
- BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (BLS) — June 2017
Timeline
LAW CLERK / RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Innocence Project New Orleans-Internship
05.2025 - 10.2025
CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT
Peristyle Residence
03.2017 - 08.2022
OFFICE ASSISTANT / RECEPTIONIST
Total Health Clinic
01.2015 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Southern University of New Orleans