Wrongful convictions are contrary to the very fiber of our criminal justice system–punishing the innocent and undermining the integrity of our system, while threatening public safety by allowing the actual perpetrators to go free. For this reason, the State Attorney’s Office has created a Conviction Review Unit with the goal of eliminating wrongful convictions in our community.

The purpose of a Conviction Review Unit (CRU) is to identify, remedy, and prevent wrongful convictions. Our CRU conducts an initial screening process to identify plausible claims of innocence on behalf of convicted defendants. For claims that merit review, the CRU then conducts a more detailed investigation of the claim. The CRU consists of dedicated attorneys, investigators and support staff.   If following the review and investigation, the CRU identifies a wrongful conviction, the State Attorney’s Office will remedy the conviction, possibly by dismissing the underlying charges and convictions, and will take appropriate measures to prevent similar wrongful convictions.

If you believe you have been wrongfully convicted of a crime in Palm Beach County, please complete the petition below. You, or someone on your behalf, can submit a petition by choosing one of the following methods:

1. Completing the online form;
2. Downloading a printable PDF form and emailing it to CRU@sa15.org; or
3. Mailing a hard copy of the PDF form to the State Attorney’s Office, Attn: Conviction Review Unit, 401 North Dixie Highway West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.

CRU Petition        

CRU Policies and Procedures        

Frequently Asked Questions