A Simi Valley man who spent nearly 40 years in prison for murder will receive more than $2 million from the State. Craig Coley spent more than 38 years in prison for the death of his girlfriend and her son.

Coley always maintained his innocence. In 2016, the state released him following an updated investigation. In addition, DNA evidence thought to have been destroyed, showed that Coley did not commit the crime. Three current and former police officers also testified on Coley’s behalf.

The California Victim Compensation Board said recently that it accepts that Coley is actually innocent. The Board voted to compensate Coley $140 per day for his nearly 14,000 days behind bars. Coley has been completely exonerated for the crime, but is now 70 years old.

Coley’s attorney says he plans to file additional lawsuits, but has not yet done so. He has asked the State Legislature to expedite approval of the compensation payment to Coley.

Los Angeles murder lawyer

When you face murder charges, hire an experienced murder lawyer like Robert Helfend. Murder convictions are notoriously difficult to overturn, even with significant evidence. The system is not set up to reconsider convictions, except through a limited appeals process.

An experienced murder lawyer will fight aggressively on your behalf. By challenging the evidence against you immediately – before and during trial – a prepared attorney can help you avoid conviction.

Homicide is the most serious charge you can face in California. Your life is literally at stake. Even if you don’t face the death penalty, you can still spend your life in prison. Don’t rely on an inexperienced attorney, and don’t assume that there’s nothing you can do.

Contact Robert Helfend or call toll-free at (800) 834-6434, (310) 456-3317, (818) 591-2809 or (805) 273-5611 for an immediate consultation on your Los Angeles County murder case.

Photo Credit: Thomas Hawk, Flickr.com

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