Primary silo II · Collateral review
Federal Post-Conviction Relief
Post-conviction review asks a different set of questions—often beyond the direct appellate record—about constitutional error, counsel performance, and available collateral remedies.
28 U.S.C. § 2255
01
Core remedy
28 U.S.C. § 2255 Motions
Collateral challenges to a federal conviction or sentence under § 2255.
Ineffective Assistance of Counsel
Claims that deficient representation prejudiced the federal proceeding.
Constitutional Claims
Cognizable constitutional violations developed through the post-conviction record.
Other Post-Conviction Relief
Assessment of potential remedies beyond a completed direct appeal.
02
Counsel performance
Failure to Investigate
Claims involving overlooked facts, witnesses, records, or defenses.
Failure to File an Appeal
Claims involving disregarded instructions or failures to consult about appeal rights.
Plea Advice Claims
Challenges involving deficient plea advice and resulting prejudice.
Sentencing Counsel Errors
Claims involving failures to object, investigate, advocate, or preserve sentencing issues.
03
Evidence and procedure
Newly Discovered Evidence
Evaluation of material evidence discovered after conviction.
Actual Innocence
Fact-intensive claims and gateway principles concerning innocence.
Evidentiary Hearings
When disputed material facts may require testimony and record development.
§ 2255 Deadlines
The one-year limitations framework and potential alternative triggering events.
04
Further review
Confidential case review
Collateral review requires its own record, rules, and strategy.
Early review can clarify the deadline, procedural posture, available record, and potential path forward. Call 888-690-4516 or submit a confidential request online.