MS HB788

Reduces the statute of limitations for filing post-conviction relief motions from three (3) years to one (1) year after direct appeal ruling or expiration of appeal period.

Maintains exceptions to the one-year limitation for cases involving intervening Supreme Court decisions, newly discovered evidence not reasonably available at trial, or DNA evidence that could change conviction or sentence outcome.

Preserves exceptions for capital cases (one-year filing deadline) and cases involving expired sentences or unlawfully revoked probation, parole, or conditional release.

Allows incarcerated persons, those on parole or probation, or subject to sex offender registration to file motions to vacate sentences, request forensic DNA testing, or seek out-of-time appeals based on specified constitutional violations and other grounds.

Takes effect July 1, 2013.