Appeals in Criminal Cases

Appealing a Conviction

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.

Appealing a Sentence

Criminal defendants generally can't appeal lawful sentences. But a defendant can appeal a sentence if it's illegal, unconstitutional, or unreasonably excessive.

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.

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.