Appeals and the Writ of Habeas Corpus FAQ

Questions:

• What is an appeal?
• What are the chances that my conviction will be reversed?
• What is a writ?
• What's the difference between a writ and an appeal?
• What is a writ of habeas corpus?

Answer:

What is a writ?

In most modern American jurisdictions, a "writ" is an order from a higher court to a lower court or to a government official such as a prison warden. Defendants may seek several types of writs from appellate judges directed at the trial court or at a lower appellate court. (Many states have two levels of appellate courts -- an intermediate appellate court and the state supreme court.) 

Writs, like appeals, are complex and involve picky details. Defendants facing situations where they may be entitled to take a writ should consult counsel.