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.
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.
Criminal defendants generally can't appeal lawful sentences. But a defendant can appeal a sentence if it's illegal, unconstitutional, or unreasonably excessive.
Criminal defendants who think they've been wrongfully convicted of a crime have a number of options: appeals, writs, and habeas corpus.
Learn about the kinds of cases the U.S. Supreme Court hears, how the Court chooses the cases it will decide, and the steps in the Court's decision-making process.
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