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Post-Conviction Relief

Federal criminal defense, criminal appellate and post-conviction relief attorney Ann Fitz on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Top-Rated Post-Conviction Relief Attorney in West Palm Beach

At the Law Office of Ann Fitz, we understand that a federal criminal conviction does not close the door with finality and know how to argue for post-conviction relief.

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Post-conviction relief refers to the legal process that takes place after a criminal conviction of the defendant, either by guilty plea or after a trial.  Once a defendant has been sentenced and the finding of guilt becomes final, the conviction and/or sentence can be challenged on legal grounds.

Post-conviction relief generally falls into two categories:

  • Direct appeals, and
  • Federal habeas corpus proceedings.

The goal of these proceedings is to prove that a convicted person is innocent, to reduce the sentence, or to correct errors made by either the district court or defense counsel.

Many clients have sought Ann Fitz's assistance after being convicted of a federal crime.  She has prepared motions and briefs in the 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 9th, 10th, and 11th Circuit Courts of Appeal, as well as the United States Supreme Court, and has represented clients in federal habeas proceedings in multiple districts.

For many of her clients, the original attorney failed to identify potential sentencing mitigation factors or failed to raise relevant legal arguments in the district court.  That lack of attention may have resulted in conviction, an involuntary guilty plea, or a higher sentence, and can be challenged in post-conviction proceedings.

Ann Fitz will conduct a thorough review of the district court record, including court filings and transcripts, and the law to determine the strongest arguments that can be made in your case.  Her job is to show that material mistakes made in the district court entitle you to a reversal or an acquittal, or to argue that ineffective assistance of counsel is grounds for vacating, setting aside, or correcting your federal sentence.

Don't Wait - Post-Conviction Relief Has Strict Time Limits

Timing is important as there are strict statute of limitations for criminal post-conviction relief. It is therefore imperative for you to contact us immediately for a review of your case. Contact the Law Office of Ann Fitz by calling 561-932-1690 or by using the contact form.

Filing Time Limits

Appeals and other post-conviction motions have very strict time limits for filing.

In federal court, a Notice of Appeal must be filed within 14 days of the entry of judgment in a criminal case and within 30 days of the entry of judgment in a civil case, or 60 days if the United States is a party.

A federal habeas petition must be filed within a year from the date a judgment becomes final.  There are few circumstances that give rise to an extension of time.

If filing deadlines are missed, the request for post-conviction relief is considered waived and an appeal will not be considered by the court.

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The Law Office of Ann Fitz is committed to answering your questions about Criminal Defense law issues in Florida. We offer a Free Consultation and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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