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But on appeal, a new judge reviewed the confession and said Dugar should be released.

Dugar could still face a trial if the state does not drop the case, his lawyer, Ronald Safer, told ABC News.

\"We are gratified that Judge [William] Hooks carefully weighed all factors and released Kevin pending trial,\" Safer said. \"I am hopeful that the state will do the right thing and dismiss Kevin's case.\"

\"If not, we will prevail at trial because Kevin is innocent,\" Safer added.

\"PHOTO:
WLS
PHOTO: Kevin Dugar walks out of the Cook County Jail in Chicago, Jan. 26, 2022, after serving 20 years in prison for a murder his twin brother confessed to committing.
>

Dugar is now adjusting to life outside of prison, according to his lawyer.

\"Kevin is overjoyed to be free. But the adjustment is not easy. The wounds inflicted by wrongful incarceration are deep, broad and enduring,\" Safer told ABC News.

\"People think there would be unmitigated joy over being free after 20 years. There is joy, but it comes with a host of emotions,\" Safer added. \"It is a difficult adjustment, but Kevin is strong and he will persevere just as he has all these years because there is strength in knowing you are innocent.\"

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