Seeking Justice After Conviction Through Appeals, Expungements, and Relief
A criminal conviction doesn’t have to be the end of your story. We help clients fight back—appealing unjust outcomes, clearing records, and restoring their future.
Because Everyone Deserves a Second Chance
Legal Remedies After Conviction, Plea, or Sentencing
Even after a verdict or guilty plea, there are still legal paths forward. Whether you were unfairly convicted, denied your rights, or simply need a second chance, post-conviction relief offers hope. From sentence modifications and expungements to appeals and motions to vacate, these procedures can change the outcome of a criminal case—and the course of your life.
At Pedro L. Salim Law Firm, we represent individuals seeking relief from past convictions, especially those who now face consequences in employment, licensing, or immigration proceedings. We dig deep into the trial record, sentencing documents, and procedural history to build compelling legal arguments for relief.
If your case involved plea agreements or defense errors, or if new evidence has come to light, we may be able to reopen your case, clear your record, or reduce your sentence.
What Is Post-Conviction Relief?
Legal Tools to Reduce, Reverse, or Remove a Criminal Conviction
Post-conviction relief refers to a set of legal remedies available after a trial or guilty plea has concluded. These remedies do not depend on innocence alone—many are based on technical, procedural, or constitutional issues that arose during the original case.
We help clients pursue:
- Motions to vacate a conviction
- Petitions for habeas corpus
- Direct appeals or appellate court review
- Requests for resentencing or sentence modification
- Expungement or sealing of criminal records
- Motions for new trial based on newly discovered evidence
- Relief for immigration-related consequences of criminal conviction
- Claims of ineffective assistance of counsel
Post-conviction relief is highly fact-specific. We conduct a thorough review of transcripts, plea agreements, evidence, and trial records to identify your strongest legal options.
We help noncitizens eliminate or modify past convictions that threaten their immigration status, including those seeking adjustment of status or naturalization.
Motions to Vacate Due to Ineffective Counsel
If your attorney failed to properly advise or represent you, we can challenge the outcome based on ineffective assistance.
If your trial was marred by judicial error, biased jury instructions, or prosecutorial misconduct, we pursue appellate review.
We help clients remove old arrests or convictions from public view, especially after dismissal, diversion, or time served.
If you pled guilty without full knowledge of the immigration or professional consequences, we can file to undo the plea and protect your future.
Why Post-Conviction Relief Matters
One Mistake Shouldn’t Define the Rest of Your Life
A criminal record can impact every corner of your life—from immigration status and employment to education and housing. Post-conviction relief gives you the opportunity to clean the slate and rebuild your future. Whether you’re facing new challenges tied to an old case, or you’ve been denied fair treatment by the justice system, we’re here to help you move forward.
Our services include:
- Reviewing trial transcripts and court records for errors
- Interviewing new witnesses or experts
- Drafting legal petitions and memoranda
- Representing you at post-conviction hearings or appeals
- Coordinating with immigration attorneys to support visa, green card, or naturalization efforts
- Filing motions tied to convictions for drug crimes, theft, domestic violence, or white collar offenses
- Protecting your long-term professional and personal goals
We believe your future shouldn’t be limited by your past.
Post-Conviction Relief FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing or Challenging Convictions
Can I change a guilty plea I already entered?
Sometimes. If you weren’t properly informed of the consequences—especially for immigration or licensing—we may be able to vacate the plea.
What’s the difference between an appeal and a motion to vacate?
An appeal challenges legal errors from trial. A motion to vacate argues the conviction is invalid due to new evidence, ineffective counsel, or lack of understanding.
Can I seal or expunge my record after a conviction?
Possibly. Each state has different rules. We evaluate your eligibility and help clear your record when available.
Will this help my immigration case?
Yes. Certain criminal convictions must be removed or modified to avoid deportation, inadmissibility, or denial of immigration benefits. We work with our immigration law team to protect your status.
Is there a time limit for post-conviction relief?
Yes—some remedies have strict deadlines. If you’re considering action, don’t delay. Contact us immediately to preserve your rights.
