The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the procedures for filing motions for new trials and petitions for postconviction relief, particularly for individuals sentenced to death. It introduces new language in section 2945.79, allowing for a new trial based on newly discovered evidence that could significantly impact the trial's outcome. The timeline for filing motions related to newly discovered evidence is also modified, permitting such motions to be filed at any time after the verdict, as specified in the new section 2945.80. Additionally, the bill replaces the phrase "affecting his substantial rights" with "that affect the fairness of the defendant's trial or that demonstrate a miscarriage of justice," and updates the requirements for supporting affidavits in motions for new trials.

Furthermore, the bill removes limitations on the length of petitions for postconviction relief filed by death-sentenced individuals, allowing for more comprehensive submissions. It adds a new category for petitions, enabling the prosecuting attorney to respond without page limits if the petition exceeds specified lengths. The bill clarifies the appointment of counsel for indigent defendants and establishes that there are no limits on the length of notices of appeal or related briefs for those sentenced to death. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the fairness and thoroughness of the judicial process in serious criminal cases by providing clearer guidelines and more opportunities for defendants to seek relief based on new evidence.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 181.25, 2929.06, 2945.79, 2945.80, 2945.81, 2953.21, 2953.23