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What types of cases does the Innocence Project of Texas (IPOT) investigate?
IPOT only investigates claims of actual innocence where an individual has been convicted of a crime in Texas and has exhausted all of his or her direct appeals. IPOT does not provide litigation assistance during trial, appeal, or parole proceedings.
How does IPOT define “actual innocence”?
We define actual innocence to mean that either
- no crime has occurred, or
- a crime has occurred, but the individual claiming innocence was in no way involved in that crime.
How do I have my claim of innocence reviewed by IPOT? How can I request assistance for a family member?
The first step in our process is to write a letter to:
Innocence Project of Texas
1511 Texas Avenue
Lubbock, Texas 79401
Please include in the letter a description of the crime, the claimant’s contact information (including TDCJ# if they are incarcerated), and a description of any evidence that could help to prove innocence. Please note that we do not currently accept requests for assistance via e-mail, phone, or fax.
How long does the investigation process take? When will my claim be reviewed?
Unfortunately, the best answer we can give is that it depends. We have a long waiting list of cases in line to be investigated. Our investigators get to the files as quickly as possible, but many cases take a long time to sort through. Once we reach your case on our waiting list, you will be notified in writing that our investigation has begun.
What is the cost of having IPOT evaluate a claim of actual innocence?
Because the great majority of our clients are indigent and cannot afford to hire anyone to investigate their claims of innocence, IPOT does not charge for the services that it provides. IPOT is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, so if you would like to contribute to our efforts and sponsor our investigations, please consider making a donation today.
If I submit a request for assistance, does IPOT become my lawyer?
No. No one from the Innocence Project of Texas is your lawyer or represents you while we are investigating your claim. We are merely looking into your case to determine if it is appropriate for litigation.
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