If you did not win your criminal case but believe that there is additional information that should result in a change to your conviction, then your first step should be a free consultation with an experienced appeals attorney. Keep reading to find out what you need to win your appeal or just call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to request a consultation.
An Attorney is Your Best Bet to Win an Appeal
First, know that if you have a criminal defense attorney helping with your case, you will have the best chance. We can work to show that you have been rehabilitated and are unlikely to commit another crime or to show that there was an issue with your case that resulted in a wrongful conviction. We may be able to argue that your conviction should be completely erased with a pardon (also known as clemency). Depending on your case, we may seek a conditional pardon that leads to the crime being excused.
The hardest part of many attempts to win an appeal is learning that it can a long time to get an appeal through. You may get an answer within a month, or it could take upwards of a year – even with the help of a highly experienced attorney. There are many deadlines, legal papers to be filed, court procedures that must be followed, and other factors that require the help of an experienced attorney.
These Factors Offer the Best Chance of Success in an Appeal or Other Post-Conviction Relief
You must have a valid legal reason to have your appeal heard. This may include new facts that show you were not guilty, a new interpretation of facts that would ideally include new evidence, all fines being paid, completion of probation and/or criminal incarceration, no additional arrest or convictions, or significant changes to the law that affect your conviction. For example, if there are new sentencing laws, then you may qualify to have your sentenced reduced.
There are a Number of Appeals That May Work for Your Case
After your attorney reviews your case, they can determine which appeal or motion will most likely work for your case. In making our decision, we will consider the facts of your case, California state laws, recent rulings, the judge who handled the initial charge, and other factors. There may be additional post-conviction remedies that can help remove the criminal charges from your case.
What you would qualify for and which options would work best for you will depend on a long list of factors. At Chambers Law Firm we welcome your call to 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation. We can consider the basics to help you decide if an appeal is worth considering.
