Help for a wrongful conviction case
How to Request Help for a Case: WCN Group Members
Once a week we make this post and it's the best place to seek help and ask questions about a wrongful conviction case. If you post it elsewhere in the group, you run the risk of it being overlooked. We encourage you to ask your questions here to be sure those who might be able to answer your questions will see them.
We understand the urgency of your situation, and our 6,000+ members want to help. To maximize your chances of connecting with the right resources, feel free to use this as a template for your post:
Brief Background (50-75 words):
• Current jurisdiction (state/county)
• Post-conviction status (if yes: crime, sentence)
• Current stage of appeals process
• Immediate deadlines or time-sensitive issues
Key Case Details (100-125 words):
• Type of wrongful conviction (ineffective counsel, prosecutorial misconduct, false confession, etc.)
• DNA evidence status (available? tested?)
• Jury misconduct concerns or irregularities
• Key evidence issues
• Primary legal challenges
Recent Developments (75-100 words):
• Latest court actions
• New evidence discoveries
• Current legal representation status
• Recent investigative findings
Next Steps Needed (25-50 words):
• Specific type of help needed
• Immediate priorities
• Resources already explored
IMPORTANT TIPS:
• Keep it concise - longer posts get less engagement
• Focus on facts over emotions
• Include relevant dates
• Highlight urgent deadlines
• State clearly what kind of help you're seeking
Remember: Legal professionals and advocates are more likely to respond to clear, organized presentations of facts. Your story matters - help us help you by making it accessible.
FOR MEMBERS RESPONDING TO REQUESTS:
Please begin your response by identifying your perspective/expertise:
• "I'm a wrongful conviction advocate with X years experience..."
• "I work with [organization name] focusing on..."
• "As someone who experienced wrongful conviction in my family..."
• "I'm a legal professional specializing in..."
• "I'm an investigator with experience in..."
When Offering Help:
• Be specific about what you can (and cannot) do
• Include relevant resources or organizations you recommend
• Mention if you're willing to be contacted privately
• Share similar case experiences if relevant
• Indicate your geographic location if offering local assistance
Remember:
• Keep advice factual and within your expertise
• Avoid making promises or guarantees
• Consider sharing publicly available resources
• Respect confidentiality when appropriate
• Direct urgent matters to proper legal channels
Together, we can make a difference - one case at a time.
Disclaimer: The requests, responses, and comments within this group do not constitute legal advice or representation. Nothing shared here forms an attorney-client relationship. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified legal professional for legal advice tailored to your specific situation.