Appeals in Criminal Cases
In one sense, a criminal conviction signals the end of a case. But in another, it's just an interval in the criminal process. While it's generally tougher for defendants to win on appeal than at trial, the appellate process allows them to present challenges that, if successful, will undo convictions.
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A not guilty verdict on all charges normally ends a criminal case—the prosecution cannot appeal an acquittal. A guilty verdict on some or all charges, however, doesn’t necessarily mean the case is over.
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Criminal defendants generally can’t appeal “lawful” sentences. But a defendant can appeal a sentence if it’s illegal, unconstitutional, or unreasonably excessive.
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Appeals and the Writ of Habeas Corpus FAQ
Criminal defendants who think they've been wrongfully convicted of a crime have a number of options: appeals, writs, and habeas corpus.
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What Cases Does the U.S. Supreme Court Hear?
The United States Supreme Court is a federal court, meaning in part that it can hear cases prosecuted by the U.S. government.
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