With a Chance at Freedom, They Faced an Unexpected Obstacle: Their Own Lawyers

Pennsylvania courts allow attorneys to argue against their convicted clients’ bid for justice. It has resulted in people spending years or decades in prison before being freed based on issues lawyers overlooked or rejected.

By Samantha Melamed and Dylan Purcell, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Co-published with The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Originally Published May 19, 2026. Recorded by News Over Audio.

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