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Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief in Arizona: A Second Chance at Justice
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September 14, 2025

Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief in Arizona: A Second Chance at Justice

Not every criminal conviction is the end of the road. In Arizona, defendants who believe they were wrongfully convicted, unfairly sentenced, or denied a fair trial may still have options. Appeals and post-conviction relief (PCR) provide a critical second chance to challenge errors and protect your future. At Taylor Law Group, PLLC, we guide clients through this difficult process with experience, precision, and persistence.

Understanding Appeals in Arizona

An appeal is not a new trial. Instead, it asks a higher court to review the original case for legal errors. Common appeal grounds include:

  • Improper jury instructions
  • Evidence that was wrongly admitted or excluded
  • Prosecutorial misconduct
  • Sentencing errors

Appeals are time-sensitive and must be filed quickly. Missing a deadline can mean losing the chance to challenge a conviction.

What Is Post-Conviction Relief (PCR)?

Post-conviction relief goes beyond appeals and allows defendants to raise issues that may not have been clear during trial. It is also known as a collateral appeal, or indirect appeal. In Arizona, PCR petitions often address:

  • Ineffective assistance of counsel
  • Newly discovered evidence
  • Constitutional violations
  • Illegal sentences

PCR is often the last opportunity to correct a wrongful conviction or unfair outcome.

PCR also covers issues like early termination of probationconviction set-asidesrestoration of civil rightsrestoration of gun rights, and criminal record sealing. We handle all of those issues every day.

Check our website at: https://www.douglaswtaylor.com/appeals-and-post-conviction-relief for more information.

Why Experience Matters

Post-conviction cases are highly technical. They require deep knowledge of Arizona criminal law, appellate procedure, and trial strategy. Douglas W. Taylor — a former Pima County judge and seasoned defense attorney — brings unmatched perspective. Having presided over and argued criminal cases from both sides of the bench, he understands exactly what higher courts and reviewing judges look for.

Our Approach at Taylor Law Group, PLLC

  • Thorough review of trial transcripts and evidence
  • Careful identification of legal errors and constitutional issues
  • Strategic petitions crafted to highlight strong, appealable arguments
  • Aggressive advocacy at every stage of the process

Each case receives personal attention and a customized strategy designed to give clients the best possible chance at relief.

Protecting Your Future

A criminal conviction can affect your freedom/liberty, employment, family life, licensing, 2nd Amendment rights, and personal reputation. Appeals and PCR are opportunities to correct injustice and move forward.

At Taylor Law Group, PLLC, we believe everyone deserves a fair process and a second chance — and if mistakes were made, they must be corrected.

👉 If you or a loved one need help with an appeal or post-conviction relief in Tucson or Southern Arizona, visit our website to learn how Taylor Law Group, PLLC can stand by your side.

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