Many people feel that getting a criminal conviction overturned feels impossible. Yet, new evidence offers real hope for those who claim their innocence in Washington County. As DNA testing and forensic methods advance, courts now review more cases than ever, giving convicted individuals a chance to clear their names.
What counts as new evidence in Washington County?
New evidence means facts or information that didn’t exist or wasn’t available during the original trial. This includes DNA test results, witness statements or scientific findings that came to light after the conviction. The evidence must prove strong enough to change a jury’s decision if they had known about it during the trial.
Steps to challenge your conviction
The path to overturning a conviction starts with filing the proper paperwork at the right time. Here’s what Washington County courts need to see:
- Evidence found after the trial ended
- Facts that add new information not just support old arguments
- Proof that directly relates to the case
- Clear showing that this evidence will lead to a different verdict
- Quick filing after finding the new evidence
After filing these documents, the court reviews each piece carefully. This review often includes hearings, where judges examine the evidence up close and consider how this new information might have changed the original trial’s outcome.
Getting it right from the start
The rules for presenting new evidence in Washington County courts follow strict guidelines. Each detail matters – from how you file the paperwork to when you submit it. Missing even one deadline or requirement can hurt your chances of success. Most people who win these cases work with lawyers who know the local court system and post-conviction laws. These attorneys help present the new evidence in ways that meet all legal standards and give you the best shot at overturning your conviction.