Post-Conviction Lawyer in Erath & Hood Counties, TX

A criminal conviction can have severe and even lifelong consequences. Aside from the legal penalties, such as fines, incarceration, and probation, individuals convicted of a crime can face social, career, and educational barriers that can severely impact their lives. 

A permanent criminal record is easily accessible for anyone who seeks to find out about it. Potential employers, landlords, educational institutions, professional licensing agencies, and others doing routine background checks can use this information against you. 

However, post-conviction actions, such as expungement, can remove these barriers, allowing you to improve your chances for a brighter future. Post-conviction legal services are a critical component of the judicial system, also providing hope to those who may have been wrongfully convicted, received excessive sentences, or were victims of legal missteps.

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we provide experienced legal representation to Texans seeking post-conviction actions. Our firm is dedicated to handling your case with the utmost care and support. 

Discuss your case in a free initial consultation with our Erath County post-conviction attorney by contacting us at (254) 355-4654. We also serve clients in Hood County, Stephenville, Granbury, Somervell County, Comanche County, Parker County, and Eastland County.

The Importance of Post-Conviction Actions

The importance of post-conviction actions stems from the principle that the justice system is fallible while striving for fairness. Unfortunately, mistakes are made. Post-conviction relief offers a mechanism to address miscarriages of justice. 

When new evidence surfaces, or it becomes apparent that an individual's rights were compromised during a trial, post-conviction legal services become indispensable.

Apart from the human perspective, practical benefits can occur. For individuals who have served their time and are rehabilitated, these services offer a path to reintegration into society. For instance, the expungement of a record opens doors to employment, housing, and educational opportunities that would otherwise be closed.

Types of Post-Conviction Actions

Various actions can be taken for individuals convicted of crimes in Texas.

These can include: 

• Filing appeals: Challenging the conviction or sentence based on procedural or legal errors during the trial.
• Writ of Habeas Corpus: Arguing unlawful detention, often related to constitutional rights violations.
• Motion for a new trial: Requesting another trial based on new evidence or juror misconduct.
• Sentence modifications: Seeking a reduction or alteration of the original sentence imposed.
• Commutation of sentence: Applying to have the sentence reduced by the executive branch.
• Pardon petition: Requesting the governor or the president for a pardon, absolving the individual of the crime.
• Expungement and record sealing: Petitioning to have criminal records expunged or sealed from the public.

More About Expungement

An expungement is a critical form of post-conviction relief that legally deletes a criminal matter from an individual's record. This erasure is pivotal as it allows you to proceed without the stigma of a criminal past; it's as if the conviction never occurred. 

Achieving expungement typically involves filing a petition with the court, where your criminal records are reviewed, and a decision is made based on state laws and the nature of the crime.

In Texas, not all individuals are eligible for expungement. Generally, expungement is available to:

• Individuals who were arrested but never charged.
• Individuals who were charged but the charges were dismissed.
• Individuals who were acquitted of charges by a jury or appellate court.
• Individuals who were convicted of a crime but later found to be innocent.
• Individuals who completed deferred adjudication for certain types of misdemeanors.

The path to expungement can be complex, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the laws and a compelling argument that the individual deserves this relief. For someone striving to move past their conviction, professional legal knowledge and skill are indispensable in navigating this process. 

Turn to the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt for Experienced Help

Our firm is committed to giving Texans with criminal records the chance to rebuild their lives with a clean slate. We can review your case to determine if you are eligible for expungement or any other type of post-conviction relief. Where appropriate, we can take legal action on your behalf to seek a favorable result.

Learn your options from our Erath County post-conviction attorney by contacting us online or at (254) 355-4654 for a free case assessment.