Littler’s Rachel Fendell Satinsky Receives Edward D. Ohlbaum Volunteer Award From Pennsylvania Innocence Project

PHILADELPHIA (May 8, 2025) – Rachel Fendell Satinsky, a shareholder at Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has been honored with the Edward D. Ohlbaum Volunteer Award from the Pennsylvania Innocence Project (Project). Fendell Satinsky was selected as the 2025 recipient due to her outstanding leadership and work in securing the release of two individuals after decades of being wrongfully convicted.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Edward D. Ohlbaum Volunteer Award from the Pennsylvania Innocence Project. Working to secure the release of individuals wrongfully convicted has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Pennsylvania Innocence Project on such meaningful work,” said Fendell Satinsky.

The mission of the Project is to exonerate those convicted of crimes they did not commit, to prevent innocent people from being prosecuted and convicted, and to help those wrongfully convicted transition to freedom. The Project focuses on four main areas to fulfill its mission: exoneration, support, education and legislation. They identify and litigate cases for the convicted innocent, provide re-entry support for clients returning to society after being proven innocent, educate stakeholders in the criminal justice system on avoiding wrongful convictions, and promote policies to prevent wrongful convictions.

The Edward D. Ohlbaum Volunteer Award was named after professor and legal advocate Eddie Ohlbaum, who was an early supporter of the Project’s work. Eddie Ohlbaum was a beloved professor and an expert on evidence, an advocate for the American justice system, and a defender of children's rights and the wrongly convicted. Those who receive this award are recognized for their outstanding pro bono efforts and commitment to giving back to the community through legal services.

Two of the most notable cases Fendell Satinsky has worked on with the Project include:

• That of Jeffrey Dawkins, who was wrongfully convicted at the age of 19 on March 28, 2004. Despite the lack of initial witness statements implicating Dawkins and the weak identification evidence, he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Dawkins maintained his innocence throughout his incarceration and actively sought help to prove his wrongful conviction. Dawkins’ release on July 19, 2024, was the result of extensive efforts by the dedicated legal team. Their work involved thorough investigation, legal advocacy and collaboration to secure Jeff’s freedom.
• That of 16-year-old Tyrone Jones who was arrested in May 1973. Despite numerous witnesses at the crime scene, none were named or interviewed by the police. Jones was arrested because he was wearing a red skull cap, similar to one described by witnesses, and had a .25 caliber firearm. However, the autopsy revealed that victim was shot with a .22 caliber bullet, which did not match Jones’ gun. Jones’ conviction was based solely on his own statements, which did not align with the facts of the crime. The Pennsylvania Innocence Project took on Tyrone's case, one of its first. In May 2011, Jones’ legal team filed a Post Conviction Relief Act petition on his behalf. Jones was eventually paroled and released from prison on September 1, 2016.

Fendell Satinsky has been a dedicated volunteer attorney for the Project since 2011. Her pro bono efforts with the Project were highlighted during a Littler Pro Bono Week podcast, where she shared more on her work with the organization.

In her active practice at Littler, Fendell Satinsky focuses on employment litigation and counseling, bringing extensive experience in obtaining successful resolutions through summary judgment, at trial and on appeal. Known for her commitment to fostering long-term client relationships, Fendell Satinsky understands the importance of deeply comprehending clients’ businesses. Additionally, she serves as Co-Chair of Littler’s Contractors, Staffing and Contingent Workforce Practice Group. 

About Littler 

With more than 1,800 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.