Being convicted and sent to prison for a crime you did not commit is a nightmare scenario for anyone. However, it is a reality that some individuals face, and the experience of being wrongfully imprisoned can have a lasting impact on their lives. In this article, we will explore what happens if you are found innocent after being in prison, and the support and compensation that may be available.
The Process of Being Exonerated
If new evidence comes to light that proves an inmate’s innocence, they may be able to apply for an appeal or a retrial. In some cases, it may be possible to request a review of the case by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which has the power to refer cases back to the courts for review.
If an inmate is exonerated, they will be released from prison and the conviction will be overturned. However, the process of being exonerated can be lengthy and complex, and may involve multiple legal proceedings and appeals.
Support and Compensation
Once an individual has been exonerated, they may be eligible for support and compensation from the government. In the UK, the government provides a range of support and compensation for those who have been wrongfully imprisoned, including financial compensation and assistance with finding employment and housing.
Financial Compensation
In some cases, those who have been wrongfully imprisoned may be eligible for financial compensation. The amount of compensation awarded will depend on a range of factors, including the length of time spent in prison, the impact of the conviction on the individual’s life, and any expenses incurred as a result of the wrongful conviction.
Assistance with Finding Employment and Housing
The experience of being wrongfully imprisoned can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to find employment and housing once they are released. To address this, the government provides support and assistance to help exonerated individuals rebuild their lives. This may include assistance with finding housing, accessing education and training, and finding employment.
Mental Health Support
The experience of being wrongfully imprisoned can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental health and wellbeing. To address this, the government provides support and assistance to help exonerated individuals access mental health services and support. This may include counseling, therapy, and other forms of support.
Being wrongfully imprisoned is a devastating experience that can have lasting impacts on an individual’s life. However, for those who are exonerated, there is support and compensation available to help them rebuild their lives. The process of being exonerated can be complex and challenging, but with the right support and assistance, individuals can overcome the challenges they face and move forward with their lives.
