RESULTS: Ineffective Assistance of Counsel in Sentencing – Sentence Reduced – 11.07 Writ of Habeas Corpus

Attorneys Jacob Blizzard and Morgan Walker have once again demonstrated their exceptional legal acumen by successfully representing a client in a Texas criminal case through a post-conviction appeal.

Case Details

Our client, an 18-year-old African refugee at the time of sentencing, faced a daunting 13-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. However, what his original counsel failed to present were the compelling circumstances surrounding his life, including surviving genocide as a child, untreated trauma, and witnessing his best friend’s murder, all contributing to the offense.

Utilizing the 11.07 writ of habeas corpus, Jacob and Morgan highlighted that the client received ineffective assistance of counsel in sentencing. This constitutional process allows for challenging unjust imprisonment, and in this case, it was key to securing a new sentencing hearing.

Outcome

The Court of Criminal Appeals ruled in favor of our client, reversing his initial sentence due to ineffective counsel. Upon resentencing, and with the benefit of the newly presented mitigating evidence, our client’s sentence was reduced to 9 years. Having already served 4 years, he will be eligible for parole in just six months instead of the 2.5 years initially stipulated.

Legal Strategy

Our strategy focused on:

• Demonstrating ineffective assistance of counsel by highlighting the failure to present critical evidence.
• Utilizing the client’s unique background to contextualize his actions and advocate for a reduced sentence.
• Presenting tangible evidence of rehabilitation and progress during incarceration to influence the court’s decision.

Attorney Jacob Blizzard’s Expertise

Jacob Blizzard is dual board certified in criminal law and criminal appeals—an accolade held by less than 0.1% of Texas attorneys. His deep understanding of post-conviction procedures and dedication to justice frequently result in successful outcomes for his clients.
This case underscores our commitment to defending those who have been underserved by the legal system. If you or someone you know is in need of legal representation or post-conviction relief, contact us today to see how our expertise can make a difference.

Attorneys Jacob Blizzard and Morgan Walker work tirelessly to achieve the greatest possible results for each of our clients and their families. This is one of their successful results, settlements, and verdicts. Every case and client is unique and depends upon the individual facts and circumstances of each case. Clients may or may not obtain the same or similar results in each case.