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Articles


Favorable decisions for prisoners from the August 2026 U.S. Courts of Appeals
Here is the latest report of favorable decisions from the US Courts of Appeals for August 2026.
Sep 1


Understand the meaning of appeal waivers and how they affect direct appeals and postconviction cases
What does an appeal waiver actually mean, and what happens if you decide you want to appeal a conviction after your sentence?
Aug 24


What is a certificate of appealability and what are the requirements after a 2254 or 2255 denial?
Before making an appeal, some federal and state prisoners must obtain a certificate of appealability. In this article, we explain what a COA is and the steps to obtain it.
Aug 7


U.S. Supreme Court addresses geofencing searches and Fourth Amendment privacy rights
Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court addressed issues concerning geofencing and Fourth Amendment rights.
Jul 15


Need to know timelines for appealing a criminal conviction - Requirements for Alabama, Minnesota, and Federal prisoners
Once a person is convicted and sentenced, there is still an option to appeal. This article explains the process and varying time frames depending on where you were sentenced.
Jul 4


U.S. Supreme Court rules that a "miscarriage of justice" exception now applies to appeal waivers.
The US Supreme Court ruled that a "miscarriage of justice" can now be applied to appeal waivers.
Jun 23


Death row inmate, Gary Richard Whitton, gets reversal on denial of federal habeas corpus from the U.S. Supreme Court
Early June 2026 updates from the U.S. Supreme Court include a reversal in the denial of federal habeas corpus for a Florida state inmate.
Jun 5


Can ineffective assistance of counsel be raised on direct appeal?
What claims can be made for an ineffective assistance of counsel appeal?
Jun 3


One conviction reversal and two compassionate release denials highlight this week's Supreme Court opinions.
Racial issues and compassionate release are the topics of this week's U.S. Supreme Court opinions.
Jun 1


What does a “per curiam” opinion mean for your case?
What does "per curiam" and "per curiam affirmed" actually mean for an appeal?
May 19


Small Victories are Still Significant: Latest Decision on Felony Murder Case - Alabama v. Antonio Deandre Hawkins
The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals released a new decision in the felony murder case of Antonio Hawkins.
May 5


How does sentencing work in Alabama?
Understanding the guidelines and sentencing requirements in the state of Alabama.
May 1


U.S. Supreme Court News | District of Columbia v. R.W.
Read the latest Supreme Court opinion in the case of District of Columbia v. R.W.,608 U.S. which highlights why 4th Amendment and unreasonable search issues can be complicated.
Apr 17


Can I get help with parole in Alabama?
Are you eligible for parole in Alabama? Attorney Peter Armstrong breaks down the requirements and possibilities available to inmates in the state of Alabama.
Apr 10


My Rule 32 was denied without a hearing! What do I do now?
If your Rule 32 petition was denied without a hearing, don't worry. Here's what you need to know.
Apr 2
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