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It should come as no surprise to people who have entered California’s criminal justice system that prejudicial errors can occur – either by the attorneys handling the matter or by the judge. In addition, there are some situations where new evidence comes to light after a conviction that could prove the innocence of the defendant.

In both these scenarios, you have the right as a convicted defendant to ask a California criminal court for post-conviction relief through a motion to vacate. This can result in the conviction being lifted and the case being reopened – in many instances it can result in a new and better sentence or a dismissed case altogether.

Fortunately, our team is well-versed in Dublin motions to vacate a criminal judgment, so much so that our founder was featured in a published opinion covering these cases. Our experienced attorneys could work with you to examine the transcripts of your court sessions and determine if a key error of law negatively affected your case. They could also provide legal representation if new evidence is discovered that proves your innocence post-conviction.

The Legal Basis for a Motion to Vacate

Not every criminal defendant can file Dublin motions to vacate a criminal judgment. According to California Penal Code §1473.7, defendants can only file a motion to vacate when:

  • The conviction is prejudicially invalid due to a prejudicial error that affected the defendant’s ability to meaningfully understand the adverse immigration consequences of a guilty plea
  • New evidence comes to light that requires a reexamination of a conviction as either a matter of law or justice

CA Penal Code §1473.7 also states that a defendant can file this motion only when they have received a notice to appear in immigration court or after a removal order has become final. Essentially the petitioner must be in imminent danger of being removed or deported from the country.

The Benefits of a Motion to Vacate

A successful motion to vacate a criminal judgment in Dublin can have one of two primary goals. The most common beneficial outcome is for the criminal court to throw out the previous conviction, which then results in the defendant being given an opportunity to relitigate the case and be sentenced to an “immigration safe” crime instead. This outcome typically stems from successful motions that argue the defendant was not aware of the consequences of a guilty plea.

The other potential outcome is that the case is dismissed in its entirety. This could occur if changes in the law no longer criminalize the behavior for which the defendant was convicted, or if new evidence is gathered in the case that makes it impossible for the defendant to have committed the crime, or the DA no longer has the information necessary to prosecute the case – this typically occurs in older convictions where witnesses and evidence are no longer available. No matter what a person’s exact goal may be, a dedicated motion to vacate criminal attorney may be able to help achieve it.

Seeking Motions to Vacate a Criminal Judgment in Dublin with an Attorney’s Assistance

The entry of a criminal conviction does not need to follow you for the rest of your life. Especially in situations where you entered a guilty plea without full knowledge of the consequences, you may be able to file Dublin motions to vacate a criminal judgment. In addition, new evidence can be brought forward that indicates that you were not guilty of your alleged crimes, even after a full trial.

In either of these scenarios, if you are facing possible deportation or removal from the United States for a previous conviction, a motion to vacate a criminal judgment under Penal Code 1473.7 may be well within your rights. Contact an attorney today to schedule a consultation about your case.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving the Bay Area

The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.

We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.

As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.

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Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

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Our Criminal Defense Attorneys: How to Take Back Control of Your Life, And Your Future.

When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.

From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.

We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.

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