Post Conviction Freedom
Blizzard & Zimmerman attorneys secure justice and freedom for Samuel Sanchez Jr.
Case Overview
After spending 19 years of a 70-year sentence, Samuel Sanchez Jr. walked free from a Texas prison thanks to the tireless work of the post conviction attorneys at Blizzard & Zimmerman.
His conviction was overturned after evidence of judicial misconduct surfaced - one of the most serious violations of judicial ethics in recent Texas history.
Uncovering The Truth
Mr. Sanchez was convicted by a Midland County, Texas jury in 2007 of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Nearly two decades later, attorneys Jacob Blizzard and Sarah Durham of Blizzard & Zimmerman revealed evidence that exposed a shocking conflict of interest: Ralph Petty, a former Midland County prosecutor, had simultaneously worked as both a prosecutor in Mr. Sanchez’s case and as an employee of the presiding judge, Robin Darr.
County treasurer records confirmed that RalphPetty received payments from Judge Darr for legal work during the same period he was prosecuting cases before her, including Mr. Sanchez’s trial.
This dual role was never disclosed to the defense and created an unacceptable appearance of judicial bias.
Investigations
Further investigations by USA Today and the Texas Observer revealed that Petty’s unethical conduct extended to at least 355 criminal cases in Midland County, Texas.
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals ultimately ruled that even the appearance of judicial bias was enough to overturn Sanchez’s conviction.
“This case was not about a technicality,” said Attorney Sarah Durham.
“It was about protecting the fundamental right to a fair trial. Every person deserves to stand before an impartial judge. That right was denied to Mr. Sanchez, and it took 19 years to make it right.”
A Story of Redemption and Faith
During his time behind bars, Mr. Sanchez underwent a remarkable personal transformation. He became a devout follower of Christ and dedicated his life to mentoring younger inmates - encouraging them to reject violence and embrace faith, purpose, and accountability.
“Samuel Sanchez is a changed man,” said Attorney Jacob Blizzard, managing partner of Blizzard & Zimmerman. “He accepted responsibility for his past and has devoted himself to helping others. His freedom is not just a legal victory - it’s a testament to perseverance, faith, and the pursuit of justice.”
A Just Resolution
Recognizing the years Mr. Sanchez had already served and his complete rehabilitation, the current Midland County District Attorney’s Office - which had no connection to the original misconduct in this case - offered a plea agreement for time served.
Mr. Sanchez accepted the agreement, allowing him to walk free and continue his ministry of hope and redemption.
Restoring Justice Across Texas
The case of Samuel Sanchez Jr. is one of many post conviction victories achieved by the Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys’ Post-Conviction Relief Team.
Through their work in writs of habeas corpus, appeals, and wrongful conviction reviews, they continue to expose systemic injustices and restore freedom to those whose rights have been violated.
If your loved one was convicted in Texas and you believe their rights were violated, contact Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys today and schedule a confidential risk free assessment.
Our experienced post conviction lawyers fight to uncover the truth and restore justice, one case at a time.
Midland 385th District Court – Case: CR32192
Related Stories:
Midland Reporter Telegram – Man walks free after ‘appearance of impropriety’ by former judge, ADA
Texas Observer - Moodlighting Midland Prosecutor Means Freedom for Samuel Sanchez
Disclaimer
Attorneys Jacob Blizzard, Sarah Durham, and Morgan Walker work tirelessly to achieve the greatest possible results for each of our clients and their families. This is just one of their successful results, settlements, and verdicts. Every case and client is unique and depends upon the individual facts and circumstances of each case. Clients may or may not obtain the same or similar results in each case.