Conviction Review Bureau

The Conviction Review Bureau is tasked with ensuring that all convictions in New York State are just and accurate. The office reviews all petitions that make claims of innocence, wrongful conviction or excessive sentencing. Staff consider cases that result in conviction, regardless of whether the judgment originates during a jury trial, a bench trial or a plea bargain. Their first task is to evaluate all claims filed with the State Attorney's office to determine whether an investigation and accompanying evidence will impact the standing judgment. Though housed in the New York Office of the Attorney General office, the Conviction Review Bureau pursues a thorough and unbiased investigation of the facts and often works in conjunction with a petitioner's defense attorneys to determine whether or not the evidence available supports further action from the Attorney General. Whenever evidence supports it, the unit will recommend a vacatur of judgment of conviction to the Attorney General. This recommendation may include suggestions for a reduced sentence or exoneration of charges.