Post-Conviction Unit
The Post-Conviction Unit represents people challenging their convictions after the judgments have become final. The unit is responsible for implementing new laws or legal reforms that can lead to sentence modifications or reductions.
Our Team
Our Post-Conviction Unit is comprised of a team devoted to pursuing relief for people who are currently incarcerated in state prison, including the pursuit of habeas claims for incarcerated individuals under the Racial Justice Act and resentencings.
How We Help
If you or your loved one is currently in prison, there may be one or more ways they can seek review of their sentence based on rehabilitation, time served, changes in the law, or a change to their sentence for legal reasons. For example:
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The end of felony-murder accomplice liability in California opened the door for review of all cases where it was the legal basis for culpability.
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The California Racial Justice Act bars the State from seeking or obtaining judgments based on race, ethnicity, or national origin, and applies to any case retroactively no matter how old it is.
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A court may recall a sentence if the law has since been changed, and may be motivated to reduce a sentence where a person demonstrates sustained rehabilitation and where an excessive sentence would no longer be imposed due to the changes in the law. A court may also recall a sentence based on a recommendation by the District Attorney or by CDCR.
We are committed to supporting our clients and working to reverse excessive and racially disparate sentences. If you or someone you know is seeking post-conviction relief, please contact us for assistance.
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If you have served your sentence and are interested in clearing your record, visit our Record Mitigation and Community Reintegration Clinic page for more information on how we may be able to assist you.