Hungary’s legal system is built on civil law, which differs from the common law systems many are familiar with, like those in the U.S. and the U.K. In civil law, judges make decisions based on codified laws rather than juries deciding facts. This can sometimes allow for a closer examination of wrongful convictions in Hungary.
Irene, a law student, shared that Hungary allows for retrials if new evidence comes to light. Interestingly, there’s no statute of limitations preventing a case from being reopened. However, such instances are rare, and statutory rights for post-conviction DNA testing aren’t guaranteed.
For Irene, this project has changed her perspective. Initially aiming for a corporate law career, she found new inspiration through volunteering with the World Coalition on Innocence and Law Transformation Framework (WCILTF). “This project has reignited my passion for international law,” she said, noting that it involves more risks but also exciting opportunities.
Wagner, involved with the initiative, highlights the power of bringing diverse legal minds together. “When you mix passionate lawyers from different backgrounds, the creativity and strength of the group soar,” she explained.
In 2025, the WCILTF reported on 25 different countries, with six involving the LLM program. This collaboration is set to expand further in the coming years. Recent successes can be seen in countries like Malaysia and South Korea, where the UN Human Rights Committee is pushing for the rights of prisoners based on WCILTF reports. Key issues often include the right to DNA evidence, mechanisms for reopening cases, and compensation for the wrongfully convicted.
This summer, the WCILTF team will meet in The Netherlands to discuss expanding UC Law’s involvement in these significant efforts. Both Godsey and Wagner are eager to welcome more international students into this vital work, stating, “The door is wide open for those wanting real-world experiences in innocence work.”
Such initiatives remind us of the critical need for reform in justice systems worldwide. As Irene’s journey shows, exploring international law can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths, making a genuine impact on people’s lives.
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