Challenging or Seeking Relief from a Criminal Conviction

There are different  ways to challenge a criminal conviction. Which avenues are available to a given client depends on whether the client pled guilty or had a trial, whether the client appealed the judgment, and many other case-specific factors. Our office will provide a post-conviction review for any North Carolina conviction where the defendant is still incarcerated and the conviction affects their projected release date. If you would like for us to review your loved one’s case and we have not already reviewed it, please encourage them to write to us. Once we receive their letter, we will send them a post-conviction questionnaire. Our review consists of multiple stages and requires documents and information from other offices—we appreciate your patience as we conduct our review process.

Also, please remember that we work for the incarcerated person and will communicate directly with them. We are not in a position to provide updates to family members.

If we are unable to offer representation, we will provide incarcerated individuals guides and forms so that they can file something on their own.

Helpful Links and Resources:

• NCPLS Post-Conviction Manual and Forms

  • Post Conviction Manual and Forms 2024.pdf Download PDF • 1.49MB

• North Carolina Indigent Defense Services (for information about trial and appellate defenders)

• UNC School of Government Guide: Relief from a Criminal Conviction