Delaware § 7002 - Declaration of purpose.

Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 7002 — Declaration of purpose., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 7002. Declaration of purpose.

The State recognizes that certain individuals have served sentences of incarceration, parole, probation, and sex offender registration in the State for crimes they did not commit, and that such individuals have been denied compensation for their wrongful convictions unless they can prove their wrongful incarceration was caused by official misconduct. The State believes that individuals who were innocent of the crimes for which they were convicted suffer long-term hardships as a result of their wrongful convictions, and are entitled to compensation for the sentences they wrongfully served, regardless of whether their convictions resulted from official misconduct. Therefore, this chapter provides compensation to individuals whose convictions have been overturned followed by either acquittal or dismissal of charges, and who are found to have been factually innocent of the crime or crimes at issue, for time that they served sentences due solely to the wrongful conviction.

This chapter denies compensation to individuals who intentionally caused their convictions in order to prevent the convictions of the true perpetrators of the crimes at issue.

The State recognizes that individuals whose convictions are overturned in most cases have been released from prison without any reintegration services, even those services that are routinely provided to releasees whose convictions have not been overturned. The State finds that this lack of services unjustly hampers the ability of these individuals to reintegrate into society. Accordingly, this chapter provides reintegration services to such individuals.

84 Del. Laws, c. 427, § 1; 

Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 7002

What does Delaware Code § 7002 cover?

Section 7002 ("Declaration of purpose.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Delaware § 7002?

A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 7002" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Delaware law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.

How does Delaware § 7002 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.