Second Justice – Philadelphia, PA

Restoring Hope for the Wrongfully Convicted in Pennsylvania

Second Justice is a non-profit legal organization dedicated to providing a second chance to individuals who have been failed by the justice system. Based in Philadelphia, our mission is to offer hope and expert legal resources to those fighting to overturn wrongful convictions. We specialize in the complex area of post-conviction relief, assisting indigent and underprivileged individuals who have exhausted their appeals and have new evidence to prove their innocence. Founded by Joseph M. Marrone, a renowned litigator from the Marrone Law Firm, Second Justice was born from the pro bono work of successfully exonerating clients who had spent decades behind bars for crimes they did not commit. We believe that justice should not be determined by one’s ability to pay, and we are committed to restoring freedom to the innocent.

Specialized Post-Conviction and Exoneration Lawyers

Our legal team focuses exclusively on the intricate legal pathways available after a conviction has been finalized. We provide comprehensive support for individuals serving life sentences and others who believe misconduct or new evidence can prove their innocence. Our work is a crucial check on the power of the state and a vital resource for those with nowhere else to turn.

• Post-Conviction Relief Act (PCRA) Petitions: We have deep expertise in navigating Pennsylvania’s PCRA process, which allows for convictions to be challenged based on specific requirements and time-sensitive bounds.
• Habeas Corpus Relief: Our attorneys are skilled in filing federal habeas corpus petitions to challenge the legality of a conviction and confinement.
• Wrongful Conviction and Exoneration: We conduct thorough investigations, advocacy, and litigation to support the full exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals.
• Investigating Misconduct: A core part of our work involves uncovering and challenging official misconduct, including cases of coerced confessions, withheld evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct that led to unjust outcomes.

A Mission-Driven, Non-Profit Organization

As a charitable organization, Second Justice operates to ease the burden on the government and protect fundamental human and civil rights. We are supported by donations and a passionate team of legal professionals, advisors, and consultants who believe in a more equitable world. We were created to bring resources to those who have been wronged by an unjust system, working to reform the legal system as a whole while fighting for individual justice one case at a time. Our nationally recognized success in securing multi-million dollar settlements for exonerees, such as the landmark $9.1 million settlement for Walter Ogrod, highlights our commitment and capability.

If you or a loved one is serving a life sentence and believe there was a miscarriage of justice, we are here to help. Contact Second Justice to discuss your case and see how we can fight for you. ⚖️