New Jersey Post-Conviction Relief Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey post-conviction relief lawyer is skilled, experienced, and devoted to fighting for lasting justice. A conviction is difficult to deal with—especially if it is wrongful or otherwise illegitimate. Our firm can help you navigate the full range of post-conviction relief options. If you have any questions about your rights, we are here as a legal resource. If you have any questions about post-conviction relief, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

What is Post-Conviction Relief?

Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) is a legal procedure that allows people who have been convicted of crimes in New Jersey to challenge their conviction or sentence after appeals have been exhausted. PCR petitions are governed by New Jersey Court Rule 3:22. To be clear, it is not an appeal. Unlike an appeal, which reviews errors on the trial record, a petition for post-conviction relief allows a person to raise claims that could not have been addressed previously. If successful, a remedy may include a new trial, the modification of the sentence, or, in some cases, the outright vacating of the conviction.

Know the Grounds for Post-Conviction Relief in New Jersey

There are several different grounds on which a person can petition for post-conviction relief in New Jersey. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have a petition based on: 

• Ineffective Assistance of Counsel: As a defendant, you have the right to argue that your original lawyer failed to provide competent representation. Some examples include failure to investigate, failure to call witnesses, or failure to file necessary motions.
• Constitutional Violations: If a conviction or sentence was obtained in violation of state or federal constitutional rights, post-conviction relief may be granted. It includes unlawful confessions, denial of the right to confront witnesses, or due process violations.
• New Evidence: New evidence matters. Evidence discovered after trial that could not have been reasonably obtained earlier may form the basis for post-conviction relief. To qualify, the evidence must be material, credible, and capable of changing the outcome.
• Illegal Sentence: Finally, a defendant may challenge sentences that exceed statutory limits or violate sentencing law. In New Jersey, courts may correct or reduce unlawful sentences through post-conviction relief.

Post-Conviction Relief is a Time-Sensitive Process

New Jersey imposes strict deadlines for PCR petitions. It is very much a time-sensitive process. If you wait too long to take action, you may miss out on your opportunity to get justice. As a general rule, a petition for post-conviction relief must be filed within five years of the conviction or sentence, unless the delay is excused for exceptional circumstances. In New Jersey, courts require a showing of both a valid claim and a reason for any delay beyond the deadline. Because post-conviction is often the last chance to challenge a conviction, timely action is essential. Consult with a top-rated New Jersey post-conviction relief attorney as soon as possible. 

Bonnie Putterman is a Post-Conviction Relief Lawyer

Post-conviction relief may be available in New Jersey. With that being said, these are highly technical, specialized cases. You need a lawyer who knows the law. Our founding attorney, Bonnie Putterman, has the experience to handle the full range of post-conviction relief cases. Our client testimonials tell the story best. Among other things, our New Jersey criminal law attorney will: 

• Conduct a comprehensive, confidential assessment of your case; 
• Help you understand your options for post-conviction relief; 
• Carefully investigate your post-conviction relief case; and
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on getting the best results. 

Post-Conviction Relief in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our New Jersey Post-Conviction Relief Attorney Today

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey criminal defense attorney handles all types of post-conviction relief matters. If you have any questions about your rights, we are more than ready to help. Contact us today to arrange your completely confidential initial consultation. We handle post-conviction relief matters throughout the State of New Jersey.