Summit County Conviction Review Unit

The Summit County Conviction Review Unit is tasked with ensuring that all Summit County convictions are just. This unit 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 District Attorney's office to determine whether an investigation and accompanying evidence will impact the standing judgment. Though housed in the District Attorney's office, the Summit County Conviction Review Unit 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 District Attorney. Whenever evidence supports it, the unit will recommend a vacatur of judgment of conviction to the District Attorney. This recommendation may include suggestions for a reduced sentence or exoneration of charges.