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CIU FAQs

What is a Conviction Integrity Unit?

What is the purpose of the Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU)? ​

The purpose of the CIU is to identify whether innocent defendants have been wrongfully convicted. In the case of a wrongful conviction, the CIU works to promptly remedy the conviction. Additionally, the CIU seeks to reduce wrongful convictions by working with prosecutors to recognize and avoid mistakes that are common to them.

Is the CIU part of the District Attorney’s Office?

Yes. The CIU is a specialized unit within the Office. The CIU is staffed with dedicated attorneys, investigators, and support staff.

What kind of cases does the Conviction Integrity Unit Review?

The CIU reviews any felony conviction where there is a plausible claim of innocence. The CIU prioritizes cases where the petitioner is currently incarcerated.

How to Begin the CIU Screening Process?

How do I request a review of my conviction?

Please fill out the application available on this page and send the application electronically or in a hard-copy. If you are represented by an attorney, please consult your attorney prior to submitting an application. Please keep in mind that if you are represented by an attorney, the CIU will communicate only with your attorney about your case.

Can I apply for a review of my case if I entered a plea agreement?

Yes. The CIU reviews and investigates claims of actual innocence for cases resolved by guilty verdicts at trial and guilty pleas. Depending on the facts of the case, guilty pleas may be given a heightened level of scrutiny.

Does the CIU review cases where there is forensic evidence available for DNA testing?

No. The CIU considers other factual issues that may be present, whether or not DNA evidence exists.

Will all claims of actual innocence be reviewed?

The CIU screens applications to determine whether there are plausible claims of actual innocence. For applications that pass this initial screening, the CIU reviews the case further and may begin an investigation to thoroughly explore the applicant’s claim.

What information is needed for the CIU to begin investigating a case?

The CIU determination whether to review and investigate a conviction depends on the facts and circumstances of the case, including the evidence presented a trial, and new information or evidence that was not presented at trial.

I am concerned about the sentence that was imposed in my case. Will the CIU review sentences?

No, the CIU does not review lawful sentences. You may have other legal remedies to address sentencing issues and we encourage you to consult with an attorney.

How Does the CIU Work?

What happens after I submit an application?

The CIU will confirm receipt of an application. The CIU screens the application and will let you know whether the application has been selected for review or whether additional information is needed.

How quickly will applications be processed?

We will make every effort to process the application and communicate to you about the status of your application in a timely fashion. Please keep in mind the length of this process will depend on many factors, including the age and complexity of the case, the information available, and the number of applications to be processed.

Will I be exonerated if the CIU agrees to review my case?

No. The decision to review an application means that the CIU is prepared to explore your claim of innocence, but it does not mean that the CIU agrees with the validity of the claim or has exonerated you. Only after completing a thorough investigation will the CIU be able to make any such determination.

If I disagree with CIU conclusion, what rights do I have for further review?

The existence of the CIU does not create or confer any right on those who bring claims of actual innocence. For this reason, there is no right to appeal its determination. Because VCIU investigations are not part of a court proceeding, the CIU’s decisions or recommendations do not prevent an application from raising the same claims of innocent in another forum, such as through a petition brought under Alabama Statutes for post-conviction relief.

If my case passes the screening process and is selected for review, will the CIU keep me informed of the status of the review?

Yes, where possible and appropriate. The CIU will attempt to keep you informed during the review process and will inform you when a final decision has been made. The CIU reserves the right to determine what information should be provided to you during the course of the review.

What if I have questions not answered here?

Please contact the CIU at [email protected] for additional information. However, the CIU cannot provide legal advice or act as your legal representative. If you are in need of legal advice regarding a prior conviction, we encourage you to consult with an attorney who specializes in post-conviction litigation.

Q: Must I solve the case in order to get relief?

No. The CIU exists to correct the convictions of innocent people. A person can get relief even if the true offender is never identified or prosecuted for the crime.

What is the role of the Independent Review Panel?

The Independent Review Panel (“IRP”) consists of individuals who serve as consultants to the CIU during and at the conclusion of the investigation. The purpose of the IRP is to promote transparency and ensure community trust in cases reviewed by the CIU.

Additional Information

Is the CIU affiliated with the Innocence Project?

No, the CIU is part of the District Attorney’s Office. However, the CIU will work with the Innocence Project or similar organizations when they are representing an applicant.

What information is needed for the CIU to begin investigating a case?

The CIU determination whether to review and investigate a conviction depends on the facts and circumstances of the case, including the evidence presented at trial, and new information or evidence that was not presented at trial.

Does the CIU represent me as my attorney?

No, the CIU is part of the District Attorney’s Office. For this reason, the CIU attorneys are not able to provide you with legal advice. If you desire representation or legal advice, you should consider hiring private counsel, or seek the assistance of an innocence project.

Does the CIU review cases where there is forensic evidence available for DNA testing?

Yes. The CIU considers evidence where DNA evidence exists.

Address

Bessemer Criminal Justice Center
Jefferson County Courthouse
1851 Second Avenue North
Suite 110
Bessemer, Alabama 35020

CONTACT US

Phone: (205) 497-8610
Fax: (205) 497-8603

Email: [email protected]

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