Sometimes a mistake in the judicial system results in a wrongful conviction or a sentence that does not match the crime. In these cases, the law offers a second chance through an appeal. You may appeal any type of criminal conviction, including an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony.
Whether it’s questioning errors during the trial and pre-trial phases, asserting innocence, or arguing for reduced culpability, the role of conviction appeal attorneys is crucial. Appellate counsel plays a critical role in identifying legal errors, preserving issues for appeal, and developing a compelling strategy to present in the Appellate and Supreme Courts.
For many, a conviction is not the end of the legal road. Instead, it’s a call to action to explore every possible avenue for justice and fairness. The appeals process in California offers a ray of hope for those who believe that their conviction was the result of a flawed judicial process or that new evidence can significantly alter their case’s outcome.
How the Process Works
The appeals process in California begins with the filing of a Notice of Appeal, a critical step that sets the entire appeals procedure into motion. This document must be filed within a strict time limit after the conviction, making it imperative for defendants and their attorneys to act swiftly.
The next step following the Notice of Appeal is transcript preparation. This involves creating a complete record of the trial proceedings, including all testimonies and evidential presentations. This transcript forms the basis of an appeal, allowing the appellate court to review what occurred during the original trial without any bias.
After the transcript is filed, the briefing can begin. During this time, conviction appeal attorneys prepare detailed briefs that present the appellant’s arguments for overturning the ruling. These comprehensive documents outline legal errors that potentially impacted the trial’s fairness or outcome and include citations of legal precedents and relevant laws.
Once the briefs are submitted, the next step is oral arguments. Here, attorneys speak directly to the judges of the appellate court, emphasizing key points of their written briefs and answering any questions the judges may have. This interaction is a vital part of the process, as it gives the judges a clearer understanding of the arguments on both sides.
It’s important to remember a successful appeal can result in various outcomes, including the overturning of the original conviction, a new trial, or a modification of the sentence. The goal is always to ensure that justice is served, taking into account any new evidence or legal errors that could change the course of the defendant’s future.
Advocating for Our Clients
At the heart of every appeal is the conviction appeals attorney’s commitment to advocating for their clients. Attorney David A. Stein, a seasoned criminal conviction appeals attorney in California, understands the importance of this advocacy. His approach is rooted in a deep belief in the justice system’s potential to correct its mistakes and in the fundamental right of every individual to a fair trial.
By appealing to the higher courts, Attorney Stein and his team strive to overturn rulings that they believe are unjust or unfounded. Their exhaustive examination of trial records, meticulous preparation of appeal briefs, and persuasive oral arguments are all aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for their clients.
Understanding that the appeals process can be overwhelming, Attorney Stein offers a free consultation to help potential clients understand their legal options. This consultation is an opportunity to discuss the specifics of the case, the likelihood of a successful appeal, and the steps involved in the process.