Best Wrongful Conviction Lawyers in Seattle, Washington

Act quickly: Washington sets strict deadlines for challenging a conviction

In Seattle, a challenge may involve a direct appeal, a post-conviction petition, a request for DNA testing, or a motion asking the court to set aside a judgment. The right route depends on the conviction, the evidence, and whether the claim was raised before.

Felony cases are generally heard in King County Superior Court. Seattle Municipal Court handles many Seattle ordinance and misdemeanor cases. Deadlines can be short, and Washington law generally limits certain collateral challenges to one year after a judgment becomes final, subject to exceptions.

When a Seattle conviction may call for legal help

A lawyer can review the court record, identify available procedures, and assess whether new evidence supports relief. These situations commonly warrant prompt advice:

• New DNA or other forensic evidence may exclude you, but the evidence is held by police, prosecutors, or a laboratory.
• A witness has recanted, or newly discovered evidence points to another suspect or undermines a key identification.
• You suspect prosecutors failed to disclose evidence that could have helped the defense, such as an inconsistent witness statement.
• You believe trial counsel failed to investigate or present important evidence, or that a plea was entered without a proper understanding of its consequences.
• You need to challenge a Seattle Municipal Court conviction or a King County Superior Court judgment, and are unsure which court or procedure applies.
• Your conviction has been vacated or reversed, and you want to understand whether you may seek compensation under Washington law.

Washington laws that may govern a conviction challenge

Washington Superior Court Criminal Rule 7.8 allows a motion for relief from a criminal judgment on specified grounds, such as newly discovered evidence or certain errors. The rule is one possible route, but statutory time limits and procedural requirements may affect whether the court can consider a motion.

RCW 10.73.090 and RCW 10.73.100 establish a general one-year limit for certain collateral attacks on a judgment and list exceptions. Whether an exception applies depends on the claim and the supporting facts, so the deadline should be checked promptly.

RCW 4.100, Washington’s wrongful-conviction compensation law, was enacted in 2013. It provides a separate process for eligible people to seek compensation after a qualifying exoneration; vacating a conviction alone does not automatically establish eligibility.

Frequently asked questions about challenging a Seattle conviction

Do I need a lawyer to challenge my conviction?

You may represent yourself, but post-conviction procedures have strict filing rules and deadlines. A lawyer can assess which claims are available and whether the evidence supports them.

What is the difference between an appeal and post-conviction relief?

A direct appeal generally reviews legal issues from the trial or sentencing record. A post-conviction challenge may address other grounds, including certain newly discovered evidence, but different procedures and time limits apply.

How long do I have to file?

Washington generally imposes a one-year limit on certain collateral attacks, measured from when the judgment becomes final. Statutory exceptions exist, and other deadlines may apply, so do not assume that a claim is timely without review.

Can new DNA evidence help reopen my case?

Potentially, if biological evidence exists and testing could meaningfully affect the case. Eligibility and procedure depend on the evidence, the conviction, and applicable legal requirements.

Can I challenge a conviction after pleading guilty?

A guilty plea does not automatically prevent every challenge, but it can limit the issues available. A lawyer can review the plea record and assess claims involving the plea, counsel, or new evidence.

Who handles a Seattle conviction challenge?

Felony convictions from Seattle are generally handled in King County Superior Court, while many Seattle municipal and misdemeanor cases are heard in Seattle Municipal Court. The court that entered the judgment is an important starting point for identifying the proper procedure.

Can a prosecutor’s office review a claim of innocence?

The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has a Conviction Integrity Unit that reviews qualifying claims. A review by that office is not a substitute for meeting court deadlines or filing the required court papers.

Can I get a court-appointed lawyer?

Appointment is not automatic for every post-conviction matter. Eligibility and the availability of appointed counsel depend on the type of proceeding and applicable rules.

How much does a conviction challenge lawyer cost?

Fees vary with the record, investigation, expert work, and court proceedings required. Ask whether the lawyer charges hourly or a flat fee, what costs are separate, and whether any legal-aid or appointed-counsel options may apply.

How long does a conviction challenge take?

There is no standard timeline. A court may need time to obtain records, hear evidence, or decide procedural issues, and appeals can add further time.

If my conviction is vacated, am I entitled to compensation?

Not automatically. RCW 4.100 sets specific eligibility requirements and a separate process for compensation, which a lawyer can evaluate after reviewing how the conviction was reversed or vacated.

Official Seattle and Washington resources

• King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Conviction Integrity Unit: reviews qualifying claims concerning convictions prosecuted by the office.
• Washington State Courts: provides court rules, forms, and information about Washington courts and appellate procedures.
• Seattle Municipal Court: provides information about Seattle municipal cases, court records, and court procedures.

Steps to find and hire a conviction challenge lawyer

1. Identify the court and judgment. As soon as possible, confirm whether the case was in King County Superior Court or Seattle Municipal Court and obtain the case number.
2. Request the case file. Gather the judgment, plea or trial transcript, appellate decisions, police reports, and evidence records. Start this within the next few days if deadlines may be running.
3. Write a concise timeline. Note the arrest, plea or trial, appeals, new evidence, and any prior filings. Preserve letters, recordings, and other materials without altering them.
4. Contact lawyers who handle criminal appeals and post-conviction cases. Ask about experience with the relevant procedure, forensic or witness evidence, and cases in the court that entered your judgment. Seek an initial consultation promptly.
5. Ask for a deadline and claim assessment. Have the lawyer explain possible routes, time limits, evidence needed, and the risks of filing. Do not wait for an investigation to finish before checking filing deadlines.
6. Compare fees and representation terms. Request a written agreement covering legal fees, investigation and expert costs, and the work included. Ask about appointed-counsel or other funding options if cost is a barrier.