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Junk Science: A Texas Injustice
The use of junk science in the courtroom is truly a Texas-sized injustice. With convictions resulting from the use of dog scent lineups, flawed arson science, and other forms of faulty scientific evidence, our organization has organized a campaign to exonerate those who have suffered wrongful convictions at the hands of these practices. Click here to learn more. |
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Timothy Cole
A recent opinion issued by the Attorney General cleared the way for Governor Perry to issue Texas's first posthumous pardon to Timothy Cole, who was exonerated by the Innocence Project of Texas in 2009. Click here to learn more about Tim's case and his pardon. |
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Statewide DNA Case Review
The State of Texas leads the nation with more than 40 DNA exonerations on record. Our organization is currently conducting a statewide review of cases where DNA evidence could prove a defendant's innocence. Click here to learn more about our work on DNA cases. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Si no hablo ingles?
En el Projecto de Inocencia de Tejas, aceptamos las cartas en español.
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