A native of Woodstock, Vermont, Tessa Oliver joins California Innconce Advocates as our founding Legal Fellow. Tessa holds a juris doctorate from LMU Loyola Law School, after graduating with top honors in May 2023.  Prior to law school, Tessa obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a focus on criminal justice and forensic psychology from Northeastern University.  Tessa is currently awaiting admission to the California bar, and she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to officially become a licensed attorney.

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During her time in law school, Tessa focused on advocating for those who have been underrepresented and left voiceless by our criminal justice system. Tessa worked as a Research Assistant and Advanced Clinical Student Loyola’s Project for the Innocent (LPI).

While working at LPI, Tessa was integral in the release of two men who cumulatively spent 67 years in prison for crimes they did not commit. Her experience at LPI has allowed her to develop strong advocacy skills, proficiency in legal research and writing, and a deeper understanding of the world of post-conviction work – all of which will serve her well at Cal-IA.

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Tessa is thrilled to be joining Cal-IA and dedicated to advocating for and representing individuals in seeking post-conviction relief.