Julie Jonas

Julie Jonas is an Associate Professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, specializing in criminal law and wrongful conviction prevention. She holds a JD and BA from the University of Minnesota. Her work focuses on forensic science reliability, habeas corpus, and systemic reforms to reduce wrongful convictions. Currently, she teaches Criminal Procedure 1, Wrongful Convictions, and supervises research projects through Supervised Research & Writing.

Her career includes roles as Legal Director for the Great North Innocence Project, securing the release of seven wrongfully convicted individuals. She has driven policy changes including Minnesota's 2014 Imprisonment and Exoneration Remedies Act and 2020 eyewitness identification reforms. Jonas serves on boards for the Minnesota Attorney General's Conviction Review Unit and Minnesota Trauma Recovery Institute, and recently advised the Golden Valley PEACE Commission for police accountability.

Jonas has received national acclaim for teaching excellence and advocacy, earning awards from the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and her institution. Her scholarship emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to criminal justice reform through case advocacy, legislative work, and clinical education.