St. Louis Criminal Appeal Lawyer

Your Right to an Appeal in Missouri Criminal Cases

The American criminal justice system affords all citizens who have been convicted of a criminal offense to appeal the decision or any elements of their case. Criminal appeals are an essential part of the judicial system that solidifies the rights of defendants and ensures that justice is rightfully obtained. Although these matters may vary from case to case, anyone who wishes to file an appeal must do so within 14 days of a federal case and within 10 days after a judgment is finalized in a state case. Given the elevated stakes and the fact that appeals cases involve different legal procedures, securing experienced representation should be your top priority.

Criminal appeals are handled in an appellate court, which imposes different legal procedures than a regular trial court. Convicted offenders can file an appeal with the appellate court for various reasons.

Reasons to File an Appeal

If you believe any errors were committed during your initial case that negatively impacted the final judgment, you have the right to file an appeal, including:

• The discovery of new evidence
• Evidence was improperly admitted or withheld
• Ineffective trial counsel
• Excessive sentencing or penalties
• Jury misconduct or other issues involving jury members

During an appeal, you will have the opportunity to state your claim and provide supporting evidence and arguments that highlight mistakes or that introduce new elements to your case. The court will review all information from your initial case and will consider all issues you bring forth during the appeal to either overturn a judgment, amend sentencing or penalties, or uphold a decision.

There is no denying the fact that criminal appeals are matters of heightened importance. As such, you should take every reasonable measure to protect yourself and your rights by enlisting the assistance and support of a St. Louis criminal defense lawyer. As we have handled numerous criminal cases in the Missouri Courts of Appeal and federal appeals in the Eighth Circuit and throughout the country, you can be confident that we have the experience and insight needed to navigate the process and secure a positive resolution.

Former Prosecutor Turned St. Louis Criminal Defense Attorney

As former prosecutors, our lawyers have insight into both sides of the criminal justice system and are able to provide our clients with distinct advantages during criminal appeals. Regarded for our grit and integrity, we utilize decades of experience to challenge every possible element in your case and to present your argument in a favorable light supported by clear and convincing evidence. Knowing that these are tense and taxing matters, we work closely with our clients to ensure that they always know about the progress of their case and what to expect next. Keeping you involved during the appeals process is of crucial importance to your case and your well-being and we focus on your legal experience as much as the positive results we strive to obtain.

If you or your loved one has recently been convicted of a crime and are considering an appeal, we urge you to be aware of the time constraints involved and encourage you to schedule a free case evaluation with a member of our St. Louis legal team sooner rather than later. The appeals process is your chance to state your side of the story. Allow a proven firm to take advantage of this opportunity.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC to discuss your case.