Prospective Clients
Three types of representation provided by Innocence Matters
Direct Representation: We accept a very small number of post-conviction cases where we assume the role of the lead lawyer. In order to qualify, the accused must meet each of the following criteria:
- the accused is indigent;
- has been convicted of a crime for which s/he is factually innocent;
- in a Los Angeles County case;
- is willing to submit to and successfully pass a polygraph examination;
- has already been rejected and/or is not eligible (e.g., too early in the process) for the services of California Innocence Project;
- and Innocence Matters is not already at capacity
To be considered for Direct Post-Conviction Representation download, complete and send application form or send a letter requesting an application: Innocence Matters, PO Box 1098, Torrance, CA 90505
Those outside of CA are encouraged to review our links to other projects in your jurisdiction.
We are NOT currently accepting cases outside of Los Angeles, CA.
Apply: I Am Innocent Confidential pretrial consultation on CA trial matters
We select a limited number of pretrial criminal matters for confidential CONSULTATION ONLY, if each of the following criteria are met:
- defendant is indigent
- currently represented by a court-appointed attorney
- factually innocent
- has specific concerns that his/her attorney is not doing what needs to be done to protect his/her innocence
- must be willing to work with his/her attorney to resolve the problem
- understands and agrees that Innocence Matters will not provide direct representation or otherwise take over the case
- can pay the $100 consultation fee (covers up to 5 hours consultation time)
- and Innocence Matters is not already at capacity
Apply: Investigating Innocence Pro bono investigation for INNOCENT clients
Selected innocent clients will receive up to 40 hours pro bono pretrial investigative services, if the following criteria are met:
- defendant is indigent
- represented by a court-appointed attorney
- factually innocent and willing to submit to, and successfully pass a confidential polygraph examination (we'll cover fee)
- has the written consent and cooperation of his/her attorney to participate
- agrees to provide truthful information to the investigating team
- understands and agrees that if Innocence Matters uncovers evidence of guilt, pro bono services will cease immediately
- all work product is protected by attorney/client confidentiality and will be turned over to lawyer and defendant to use as each sees fit
- and Innocence Matters is not at capacity