Open ProvincesPotential wrongful conviction: prepare a federal review application after appeals
Confirm eligibility, exhaust appeals, complete the three forms and submit a complete record with the new material.
This is an extraordinary process and does not replace an available appeal. A detained person or anyone facing a court deadline should promptly seek legal advice.
Confirm the scope
Confirm a conviction under federal law and exhaustion of court remedies; gather every appeal decision.
Prepare the information
Explain why a miscarriage likely occurred and identify new evidence, reliability, significance and why it became available later.
Complete the process
Complete the application, personal-information consent and witnessed privilege waiver, then attach decisions and supporting material.
Keep follow-up records
Send it to the Review Group, keep an indexed copy and answer requests; an incomplete file cannot enter preliminary assessment.
How to apply for Criminal Conviction Review — Justice Canada
Sources and limits
Official sources are linked in the guide. Checked August 29, 2026; confirm current rules, forms and deadlines with the responsible authority.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-08-29.