CRIMINAL APPEALS
If you have been convicted of a crime and believe that an error or injustice occurred during your trial or sentencing, pursuing a criminal appeal may be a viable option.
Criminal appeals serve as an avenue for challenging the verdict or sentence imposed by the trial court. In this comprehensive guide, Simpson Law aims to provide valuable insights and guidance on criminal appeals, empowering you to make informed decisions regarding your legal recourse.
With their expertise and dedication, Simpson Law is committed to advising clients on the appeal process and advocating for their rights.
Understanding Criminal Appeals
To fully comprehend the significance of criminal appeals, it is important to understand their purpose and the role they play within the legal system. A criminal appeal is not a retrial of the case but rather a review by a higher court to assess whether legal errors or constitutional violations occurred during the trial or sentencing phase. The appellate court examines the proceedings and considers arguments made by the appellant (the party appealing the conviction or sentence) and the appellee (usually the prosecution).
The appellate process primarily focuses on matters of law, rather than reevaluating the facts of the case. It aims to ensure that the trial court followed proper procedures, applied the law correctly, and upheld the constitutional rights of the accused. The outcome of a criminal appeal can result in a variety of outcomes, including conviction reversal, modification of the sentence, or a new trial.
Practice Areas
At Simpson Law, we are prepared to defend you against whatever crime the State is charging, including:
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Murder/Homicide
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Criminal Sexual Conduct
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Assault
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Robbery
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Kidnapping
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Arson
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Riot
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Driving While Intoxicated
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Criminal Vehicular Homicide/Operation
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Gun/Weapons Charges
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Drug Offenses
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Theft
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Fleeing in a Motor Vehicle
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Forgery
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Burglary
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Domestic Assault
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Threats of Violence
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Child Endangerment
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Fraud
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Embezzlement
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Misdemeanor Offenses
Factors to Consider When Pursuing a Criminal Appeal
Grounds for Appeal
Identifying valid grounds for appeal is crucial. These may include errors in the application of law, constitutional violations, ineffective assistance of counsel, newly discovered evidence, or prosecutorial misconduct. Consulting with an experienced criminal appeals attorney, such as Simpson Law, can help assess the strength of your grounds for appeal.
Appellate Court Procedures
Understanding the specific procedures and rules of the appellate court is essential. These procedures dictate timelines for filing the appeal, formatting requirements for legal briefs, and oral argument opportunities. Simpson Law can guide you through these procedures and ensure compliance with all necessary formalities.
Review of Trial Record
Thoroughly reviewing the trial record is crucial in identifying potential errors or constitutional violations. This process involves examining transcripts, court documents, evidence, and trial rulings to build a strong appellate argument. Simpson Law can analyze the trial record and develop compelling arguments in your favor.
Appellate Brief and Oral Argument
Crafting a persuasive appellate brief is a critical step in presenting your case to the appellate court. This document highlights the errors or violations that occurred during the trial and explains why the conviction or sentence should be overturned. Additionally, some appellate courts allow oral argument, providing an opportunity to further advocate your position. Simpson Law can skillfully prepare and present your appellate brief and, if applicable, present oral arguments on your behalf.
Take action
When faced with the need to appeal a conviction or sentence, seeking the assistance of an experienced criminal appeals attorney is crucial. Simpson Law is dedicated to advising and advocating for individuals seeking justice through the appellate process. By understanding the purpose and intricacies of criminal appeals, identifying valid grounds for appeal, and effectively presenting your case to the appellate court, you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Trust Simpson Law to provide the guidance and expertise needed to pursue an appeal and protect your rights.