Ordinary citizens are learning more about how science can change the outcome of criminal cases. New tools and testing methods can help uncover the truth in old convictions. Sometimes, people went to prison before this technology even existed. These scientific...
In Your Corner

Post-Conviction Relief
Can post-conviction relief lead to a reduced sentence?
Post-conviction relief offers individuals a chance to challenge their conviction or sentence after trial. While the primary goal corrects legal errors, it can sometimes result in a reduced sentence. Here's how it works. Understanding post-conviction relief...
What qualifies as ineffective counsel in Oregon?
When you're facing serious legal consequences, you rely on your attorney to represent you with skill and diligence. But what if they don't? In Oregon, you may seek post-conviction relief if your defense attorney failed to meet professional standards. This is known as...
5 errors to avoid in post-conviction relief applications
Navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, especially when seeking post-conviction relief. This process offers a glimmer of hope for those looking to challenge a conviction or sentence, but it’s crucial to tread carefully. Knowing the common pitfalls in this...
How does mental illness affect post-conviction relief in Oregon?
Mental health issues remain a prevailing concern for the entire US prison system. At least 15% of state prisoners suffer from severe mental health conditions. This high number raises vital questions about how these conditions affect their rights after conviction,...
4 usual challenges when filing a post-conviction relief petition
Filing a post-conviction relief (PCR) petition can be complex as individuals seeking to overturn their convictions or sentences must navigate a web of laws and procedures. As someone considering filing a PCR petition, what challenges can you face? In addition, what...
Can new evidence overturn a Washington County conviction?
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...
Who can file for post-conviction relief in Oregon?
For those entangled in the complexities of the criminal justice system, hope can seem distant. In Oregon, post-conviction relief offers a beacon of possibility—a chance to challenge a conviction and seek justice anew. This legal path is vital for individuals who...
How is an appeal different from post-conviction relief?
Individuals who believe they have been wrongfully convicted may wonder if they can still challenge it. In Oregon, there are two main pathways: filing an appeal and seeking post-conviction relief. While both aim to rectify an unfair trial or sentence, they vary in...
Ineffective assistance of counsel: Grounds for post-conviction relief
The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to effective legal representation in criminal cases. This means more than just having a lawyer present – the lawyer must provide a meaningful and competent defense. However, what happens when their performance is so poor that...