Who we help

At Tennessee Innocence Project, we stand with people whose lives have been forever changed by a wrongful conviction. 

We represent individuals who have been convicted of crimes they did not commit and who have exhausted many of the legal options available to them. Often, our clients have spent years—or even decades—incarcerated for crimes they did not commit, separated from their families, communities, and opportunities. 

Because wrongful convictions disproportionately impact those without the resources to navigate a complex legal system, we provide our services at no cost. Many of the individuals we serve come from low- to moderate-income backgrounds and would otherwise have little access to the specialized legal representation required to investigate and overturn a wrongful conviction. 

Our work extends beyond the courtroom. We support clients and their families throughout the legal process and help prepare for the day when justice is restored. For those who are exonerated and released, we connect them with trusted community partners and resources to help rebuild their lives, from securing identification and healthcare to accessing education, employment support, housing resources, and trauma-informed care. 

We also serve the broader Tennessee community by working to prevent future wrongful convictions. Through public education, advocacy, and engagement with legal professionals, students, and community organizations, we raise awareness about the causes of wrongful convictions and the reforms needed to create a more just and reliable criminal legal system. 

At its heart, Tennessee Innocence Project serves people who have been failed by the justice system—and the families and communities who have carried that burden alongside them. We believe that every innocent person deserves a path to justice, a voice in the legal system, and the opportunity to reclaim their future. 

Open cases

Andrew Hayes

Andrew Hayes was convicted of a crime he didn't commit. He is currently serving a life sentence. TIP is actively working to prove his innocence.

26years in prison

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Greg Lance

Greg Lance was convicted of a crime he didn't commit. He is currently serving two concurrent life sentences. TIP is actively working to prove his innocence.

26years in prison

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Jerome Mason

Jerome Mason was convicted of a crime he didn't commit. His conviction was overturned in 2025. Although the state appealed the ruling, Jerome was released from custody. TIP continues to represent Jerome on appeal.

30years in prison

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Russell Maze

Russell Maze was convicted of a crime he didn't commit. He is currently serving a life sentence plus 25 years. TIP is actively working to prove his innocence.

22years in prison

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Thomas Clardy

Thomas Clardy was convicted of a crime he didn't commit. He is currently serving a life sentence. TIP is actively working to prove his innocence.

19years in prison

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