You were wrongfully convicted—you were robbed of your freedom, your time and an untainted life. You spent days behind bars for a crime you did not commit, moments you could have shared with people you love. No court can ever erase the physical and emotional toll on you and the people who care about you. But even after such an injustice, remember that you have the right to fight back and seek the justice you deserve.
You are probably feeling lost now, but you want to hold the people responsible accountable as soon as possible. The first step is to file a claim in a Michigan court.
Steps to file your wrongful conviction claim
The outcome of your claim may be more positive the sooner you file. Here are the key steps you need to follow to begin the legal process:
- File the claim: You need to file a claim for statutory compensation in the Michigan Court of Claims under the Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act (WICA).
- Meet filing deadlines: Note that Michigan has a strict three-year statute of limitations for filing, starting from the date the court order reversed or vacated your conviction.
- Gather key evidence: Collect trial transcripts, police records, witness statements and new evidence that will prove your innocence for a stronger case.
- Understand the legal standards: Courts will evaluate whether your conviction resulted from misconduct, new evidence or procedural errors. A competent lawyer can build a compelling argument for you.
- Work with an attorney: Find legal counsel well-versed in Michigan wrongful convictions. They are highly capable of handling the procedural complexities of your case.
You can never get the things you lost in prison back, but you can get compensation for everything you had to go through – things you did not have to go through in the first place.
What comes after?
Compensation under WICA is currently legally set at $50,000 for each year of imprisonment, plus reimbursement of attorney fees and correctional fines. This is not meant to restore what you lost, but to provide you with financial relief.
Get the legal support you need
Pursuing a wrongful conviction claim is difficult, draining and time-consuming, but you do not have to navigate this alone. With your family behind you and a well-practiced lawyer to handle your claim, you can finally seek justice and begin rebuilding your life.