There are moments when the justice system fails, not because of bad intentions, but because something vital was missed. For example, a piece of evidence may not have been collected, a witness overlooked or a test that could have told a different story. For the person...
When you can’t fully understand what’s said in court, you can’t defend yourself fairly. For many people in Oregon whose first language isn’t English, confusion or poor interpretation often leads to serious mistakes, even wrongful convictions. Here’s what happens when...
Laws can change with relative frequency. New laws are passed or older laws are repealed. While there are certainly many long-term laws that remain in place, there can also be changes within the legal system over the years. But what happens when these laws change and...
People unfairly convicted of crimes in Oregon can ask the courts to review their situation. Post-conviction relief might lead to a new trial or the suspension of a sentence. The circumstances determine what solution is available and whether the courts rule in favor of...
When a loved one is convicted, the impact is beyond the courtroom. Families carry the weight of stress, sadness and uncertainty about the future. It is a difficult period, and emotions can shift daily. Unfortunately, healing does not come overnight. Supporting one...
A criminal conviction can feel like the end of the road, but it does not always have to define the rest of your life. Through post-conviction relief, individuals have the chance to challenge errors in their case, present new evidence, or seek reduced penalties. These...
People who are in the U.S. on visas must ensure that they don’t get into legal trouble. Being convicted of a crime can lead to deportation, ineligibility for certain visas and denial of re-entry into the country. All of these can mean that they can’t live the life...
When a person (known as a petitioner) seeks post-conviction relief based on new evidence, a change in the law or sentencing guidelines or other reason allowed in Oregon, victims of the offense for which the petitioner was convicted have the right to be notified by the...
People who break the law frequently learn from their mistakes. They may try to change their conduct after paying the price for prior illegal activity. Those who have improved their circumstances and learned from their mistakes might petition the courts for...
Post-conviction relief (PCR) is a legal process that allows someone who has already been convicted of a crime to challenge the conviction or sentence after a trial and any direct appeals are over. Think of it as a last chance to address serious issues that may have...
