CA SB97

Expands grounds for habeas corpus petitions to include new evidence that has not been previously presented at trial and was discovered after trial, defining "new evidence" as admissible, material, and credible evidence that more likely than not would have changed the case outcome.

Allows incarcerated state prison petitioners to waive in-person appearance at evidentiary hearings or appear remotely via technology unless counsel indicates the defendant's presence is needed.

Creates a presumption in favor of granting habeas relief if the district attorney or Attorney General concedes or stipulates to a factual or legal basis for relief, which can only be overcome if the record contradicts the concession or it would violate law.

Permits appointment of postconviction counsel as trial counsel or cocounsel for retrials following granted postconviction relief, if both the petitioner and counsel agree and counsel is trial-qualified.

Broadens the scope of expert testimony challenges by allowing habeas petitions based on significant disputes regarding scientific, medical, or forensic testimony reliability that has emerged or developed in the relevant professional community.