Through Pro Bono Partnership with KWIP, Stinson Attorneys Get Wrongful Conviction Overturned

04.28.2026

Stinson LLP attorneys, working alongside the Korey Wise Innocence Project (KWIP) at the University of Colorado Boulder Law School, helped secure the release of Stephen Martinez who spent more than 27 years in prison for a crime he did not commit.

A Denver District Court judge vacated the conviction after new scientific evidence and expert analysis established that the infant at the center of the case died from natural causes related to pneumonia and pre-existing respiratory illness, not trauma.

Stinson Partner Perry Glantz and attorney Judith Araujo, along with Seth Temin, and KWIP attorney Jeanne Segil supported KWIP's multi-year reinvestigation of the case, which included independent review by multiple medical experts and the Denver District Attorney's Conviction Review Unit. Following its own investigation, the Denver District Attorney's Office agreed the conviction should be vacated.

"The collaboration between Stinson and KWIP demonstrates the power of pro bono work to transform lives," said Glantz. "This case arose from deeply tragic circumstances. Mr. Martinez's release reflects the dedication of all who worked to ensure the evidence was fully and fairly reviewed, and it stands as a testament to the resilience of our clients, the dedication of our legal team, and the importance of justice pursued with care and rigor."

The court's ruling was supported by updated medical findings reflecting significant advancements in the scientific understanding of infant injury and cause of death, which led experts to conclude that prior trial testimony was no longer consistent with current science. Experts also determined that statements introduced at trial were unreliable and inconsistent with the physical evidence. The court further found that trial counsel failed to provide effective assistance by not adequately investigating alternative medical explanations or retaining appropriate experts.

This matter reflects Stinson's long-standing commitment to pro bono service as a core part of its identity and practice. The firm's pro bono program is designed to ensure meaningful access to justice for individuals and communities who might otherwise be unable to secure legal representation, and it supports attorneys at all levels in dedicating substantial time to pro bono work as part of the firm's broader strategic commitment to public service.

Read KWIP's press release on the matter to learn more.