If you have ever been involved in a criminal trial, you know that the justice system is not perfect. Although most mean well, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges are all human, which means they can—and do—make mistakes.
Unfortunately, these mistakes can lead to wrongful convictions or unfair sentences that could cause significant damage to your personal freedom and wellbeing. Contacting a Troy appeals lawyer to evaluate options following an unfavorable judgment or order could allow you to understand available options, evaluate the possible success of an appeal, and make an informed decision for your future. Speak with a skilled criminal attorney today, and know that you are in capable hands.
Why Appeal?Appealing an unfavorable judgement or order can allow a higher court to reevaluate key elements of a case as it occurred in a lower court. In an appeal, errors can be corrected, or—in extraordinary cases—new potentially exculpatory evidence can be considered.
An appeal can be the difference between an unjust or a reasonable sentence. More importantly, though, it could be the difference between freedom and incarceration due to a wrongful conviction.
How Appeals Work in Troy CourtsIn Michigan, there are two primary types of appeals in criminal court: appeal by right and appeal by leave. The former does not require permission from the court to be filed, but it must be filed no more than 21 days after the entry of the order or judgement that the appeal concerns.
Contrary to an appeal by right, an appeal by leave requires approval from a higher court in Michigan before being filed. An appeal by leave is a mechanism through which certain facts and details of the case, as well as any laws affecting the initial decision, are reviewed. Generally, an appellant has six months from the entry of a judgment in a lower court to file an appeal by leave.
Important Steps in Filing an AppealThe first and most crucial step for any prospective appellant in Troy is to retain a skilled appeals attorney counsel to zealously represent them and their interests. Filing an appeal in Michigan is a complicated and arduous process, and an attorney could help guide their client through the process and alleviate some of the pressure they may be facing.
After hiring a Troy appeals lawyer, Michigan requires that a claim of appeal be filed with both the proper court of appeal and the trial court that handed down the verdict to be appealed. There are numerous documents, filing fees, and time-sensitive filings that need to be managed during the appeals process, including:
An attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in Troy appeals could be an invaluable asset to your case. By tirelessly representing your legal rights and working to ensure a positive outcome, a seasoned Troy appeals lawyer could thoroughly explore every possible angle for appeal.
The justice system is not perfect, and mistakes can be made. Do not let a mistake turn into a miscarriage of justice. Call today to schedule a consultation and start reviewing the details of your possible appeal.