A recantation—when a witness takes back their trial testimony—is a powerful and emotional event that can shake the foundations of a conviction. In the public eye, it might seem like an immediate “get out of jail free card” for a.. Read more

In the world of Texas post-conviction law, there is a common saying: “You only get one bite at the apple.” Generally, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA) expects a defendant to raise all of their claims in their very.. Read more

For a prisoner convicted in state court, the legal road is long and arduous. After the jury returns a verdict, the direct appeal is filed. If that fails, state post-conviction relief is sought. But what happens when the state courts.. Read more

For Texas prisoners seeking to challenge their conviction or sentence in federal court, understanding the statute of limitations for filing a federal habeas corpus petition under 28 U.S.C. § 2254 is absolutely critical. Missing this deadline can mean the permanent.. Read more

At Ordiway PLLC, we often deal with complex post-conviction issues, and few are as critical—or as misunderstood—as the doctrine of laches in Texas state applications for a writ of habeas corpus. While it is true that Texas state law does.. Read more

A detailed legal analysis of the Strickland standard, the duty to investigate, plea negotiation errors, and the procedural complexities of litigating Ineffective Assistance of Counsel claims.