What are Post-Conviction Appeals?

In general, the word “conviction” means that, after trial, the jury has returned a verdict of “guilty” on at least one criminal charge. Post-Conviction Appeals Very broadly, the legal phrase “post-conviction appeal” means any effort that occurs after conviction by a jury of one or more criminal charges that seeks to overturn, nullify, or modify… Read More

What is Appellate Jurisdiction?

Breaking Down Appellate Jurisdiction Appellate jurisdiction refers to the ability of an appeals court to review and make decisions on cases heard by trial courts as well as other types of “lower” courts. To navigate appellate court cases, many people find it vital to obtain the assistance of an experienced appellate lawyer. It also helps… Read More

What Does “Remand for Further Proceedings” Mean?

When appellate courts resolve post-conviction appeals, if the appeal is successful, the appellate court will complete their ruling by ordering that the case be “remanded for further proceedings.” Sometimes a phrase is added requiring that the further proceedings be “consistent with this opinion.” So, what does “remand for further proceedings” mean? “Remand” is a judicial… Read More

What is a Suppression Hearing and How Can it Help My Criminal Defense or Post-Conviction Appeal?

A “suppression hearing” is a proceeding conducted before a criminal trial judge that involves a motion to suppress or exclude evidence from being used at trial. Almost always, suppression hearings are conducted before the criminal trial begins. In federal criminal proceedings, Rule 41(h) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure governs motions of this sort…. Read More

Can Prosecutor’s Use of “Prior Bad Acts” Evidence Lead to Reversal on Appeal?

There is a general doctrine in criminal law called the “prior bad acts” doctrine. This is a rule of exclusion. The doctrine generally prohibits the prosecution from introducing and using evidence of an accused’s prior crimes, wrongs, or other “bad acts” to show “bad” character, a propensity to criminal behavior or that the accused acted… Read More