Review of a verdict on newly discovered or exceptional grounds

Once the ordinary routes of appeal have been exhausted, the law provides a separate mechanism — review on newly discovered or exceptional grounds. It is available only on the grounds the law specifies.

When to get in touch

• circumstances have come to light that were unknown to the court when it ruled
• evidence the verdict was based on has been shown to be unreliable
• there is a decision of an international judicial body finding a violation of rights
• the ordinary routes of appeal have been exhausted

What the lawyer does

• analyses whether grounds for review exist
• assesses whether the circumstances are newly discovered or exceptional within the meaning of the law
• gathers the documents that evidence them
• prepares the application for review of the judgment
• observes the time limit for applying
• represents the client at the hearing of the application

Legal basis

The grounds for criminal proceedings on newly discovered or exceptional circumstances are set out in Article 459 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine; the time limit for applying for review is set out in Article 461.

Legislation and case law are updated over time; this page reflects the position as of August 2026.

Frequently asked questions

How do newly discovered circumstances differ from new evidence?

Not every new piece of evidence is a newly discovered circumstance. The law sets out an exhaustive list of grounds, and it is those the lawyer assesses.

Is there a time limit for applying?

Yes. The Criminal Procedure Code sets a time limit for applying for review; how it is counted depends on the ground relied on.

Need legal assistance? Call us or leave a request — a lawyer will contact you and explain what to do in your situation.