Post-Conviction Relief Options
Appeals Lawyer in East Hill-Meridian, Washington
Criminal Appeals and Post-Conviction Defense
If you have been convicted of a crime and believe there were errors in your trial, an appeal offers a critical opportunity to challenge that conviction. The Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd provides comprehensive appeals representation to residents of East Hill-Meridian and throughout Washington. Our legal team carefully reviews trial records, identifies potential grounds for appeal, and builds compelling arguments on your behalf. Whether your conviction involved procedural errors, ineffective assistance of counsel, or newly discovered evidence, we work diligently to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
Why Appeals Are Essential to Your Future
An appeal can be your opportunity to reverse an unjust conviction, reduce your sentence, or obtain a new trial based on significant legal errors. Appellate courts have the authority to overturn convictions when trial procedures were mishandled or when constitutional rights were violated. Appeals also create a detailed written record that may support future post-conviction relief efforts. Having experienced legal representation during the appeals process substantially increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. The consequences of a criminal conviction are life-altering, affecting employment, housing, and personal relationships. Through the appeal process, you can challenge that conviction and work toward restoring your freedom and future.
Our Firm's Appeals Practice and Track Record
Understanding the Criminal Appeals Process
Criminal appeals are fundamentally different from trials. Rather than presenting new evidence or arguing facts before a jury, appellate courts review whether legal errors occurred during trial that affected the outcome. These errors might include incorrect jury instructions, admission of improper evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, or failure to provide adequate legal representation. Appellate judges examine the trial record carefully and consider written briefs from both the prosecution and defense. The appellate process is rigorous and demands thorough legal analysis. Success in appeals requires identifying the strongest grounds for challenge and presenting them persuasively within strict procedural rules and deadlines.
Need More Information?
Key Terms in Criminal Appeals
Appellate Brief
A detailed written document submitted to the appellate court that explains the legal errors that occurred during trial and argues why the conviction should be reversed or the case remanded for a new trial.
Ineffective Assistance of Counsel
A legal claim that your trial attorney failed to provide adequate representation, falling below the standard expected of reasonably competent counsel and prejudicing your defense.
Notice of Appeal
The formal document filed with the court that initiates the appellate process and must be submitted within strict deadlines following conviction and sentencing.
Standard of Review
The level of scrutiny the appellate court applies when examining whether trial errors occurred, varying depending on whether questions of law or fact are involved.
PRO TIPS
Act Quickly on Deadlines
The thirty-day deadline to file a notice of appeal is absolute and cannot be extended in most circumstances. Missing this deadline permanently eliminates your right to appeal your conviction. Contact an appeals attorney immediately after sentencing to ensure your deadline is met and your case is properly preserved.
Preserve Issues During Trial
Many appellate claims require that objections be made during trial so the issue is properly preserved for appeal. If your trial attorney failed to object to problematic evidence or jury instructions, this failure may itself constitute grounds for appeal based on inadequate representation. Discuss potential issues with an appeals attorney early to maximize your options.
Consider Post-Conviction Motions
Before or alongside an appeal, you may be able to file post-conviction motions based on newly discovered evidence or constitutional violations. These motions can sometimes lead to sentence reduction or case dismissal without requiring a full appeal. An experienced attorney will evaluate whether post-conviction motions strengthen your overall strategy.
Appeals vs. Other Post-Conviction Options
When You Need Full Appellate Representation:
Multiple Legal Errors in Your Trial
If your trial involved several errors such as improper evidence, incorrect jury instructions, and prosecutorial misconduct, a comprehensive appeal addresses all of these issues systematically. Multiple errors strengthen your appeal and provide the appellate court with several independent grounds to reverse your conviction. An experienced appeals attorney identifies and argues each error effectively.
Inadequate Trial Defense
When your original attorney failed to investigate properly, cross-examine witnesses effectively, or present available defenses, inadequate representation becomes a strong appellate argument. Proving ineffective assistance requires detailed analysis of your attorney’s performance and its impact on trial outcome. Full appellate representation ensures this complex claim is thoroughly developed and persuasively presented.
When Focused Appeals May Succeed:
Single Clear Error of Law
Sometimes a trial contained one significant legal error that, standing alone, warrants reversal or a new trial. Examples include admission of illegally obtained evidence or failure to grant a necessary jury instruction. When one clear error exists, an appeal can focus on that issue with concentrated force.
Newly Discovered Evidence
If evidence has emerged after trial that was not available during prosecution and substantially affects the outcome, a focused appeal or post-conviction motion may succeed. This evidence must meet strict legal standards regarding its discovery and significance. Presenting such evidence requires careful procedural positioning within the appeals process.
When Appeals Make Sense for Your Situation
Why Choose the Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd for Your Appeal
When your freedom is at stake, you need an attorney who understands appellate law thoroughly and has the dedication to fight for your rights. The Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd combines deep legal knowledge with genuine commitment to each client’s case. We take time to understand your situation, carefully review your trial record, and develop a strategic approach tailored to your circumstances. Our team works diligently to identify every possible ground for appeal and present those arguments powerfully. We handle the complexity of appellate procedure so you can focus on your future, and we maintain open communication throughout the process.
We understand that conviction is frightening and that many people feel their voice was not heard during trial. Appeals offer another chance to be heard, and we ensure that your side of the story is told persuasively. Our reputation in the Washington appellate courts reflects our skill, preparation, and results. We have access to resources and research tools that strengthen appeals. Most importantly, we treat every client with respect and fight as if your case is our only case. Call us today to discuss your appeal and learn how we can help restore hope for your future.
Contact Us Today for Your Appeal Consultation
People Also Search For
Criminal appeals lawyer Washington
Post-conviction relief attorney
Appellate defense counsel
Ineffective assistance of counsel claim
Appeal conviction Washington
King County appeals attorney
Sentence reduction appeal
Federal crime appeal lawyer
Related Services
FAQS
How long do I have to file an appeal after conviction?
In Washington, you generally have thirty days from the date of sentencing to file a notice of appeal. This deadline is strict and rarely extended. If you miss this deadline, you typically lose the right to appeal your conviction unless very exceptional circumstances exist. It is critical to contact an appeals attorney immediately after sentencing to ensure this deadline is met. Your attorney will file the notice of appeal on your behalf and then obtain the trial transcript and begin developing your appellate strategy. Acting quickly protects your rights and ensures nothing falls through the cracks during this important process. Some situations may allow for later appeals or post-conviction motions that have different deadlines. For example, if you discover evidence that was not available during trial, you may be able to file a motion for new trial within certain timeframes. An attorney can discuss all available options and deadlines specific to your case. The key is not to delay—contact a lawyer as soon as possible after conviction.
What grounds can I use to appeal my conviction?
Appeals can be based on legal errors that occurred during trial, not on disagreement with the jury’s verdict. Common grounds include incorrect jury instructions, admission of improper evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, denial of the right to counsel, and denial of the right to confront witnesses. You may also appeal based on ineffective assistance of counsel if your attorney failed to provide adequate representation. Additionally, if the evidence presented was legally insufficient to support conviction beyond a reasonable doubt, that provides grounds for appeal. Sentencing errors or illegally imposed sentences also constitute valid appellate issues. Newly discovered evidence can support appeal or post-conviction motions if it was not available during trial and significantly affects the outcome. Constitutional violations always provide strong grounds for appeal. The key is that appellate courts focus on legal errors, not factual disputes. An attorney will review your trial record in detail to identify the strongest possible grounds for your specific case and develop arguments to present them effectively to the appellate court.
Can I appeal if I had a public defender?
Yes, absolutely. Many successful appeals involve representation by public defenders, and you can certainly appeal a conviction if a public defender represented you. In fact, one possible ground for appeal is ineffective assistance of counsel by any attorney, including a public defender. If your public defender failed to investigate adequately, failed to present available defenses, or failed to object to improper evidence or jury instructions, these failures can support an ineffective assistance claim on appeal. You have the right to hire private appellate counsel even if you were represented by a public defender at trial. Private appellate attorneys often bring fresh perspective to your case and have different resources available. Some public defender offices have appellate divisions that handle appeals. Whether you continue with appellate representation through the public defender’s office or hire private counsel, an appeal can challenge errors in your trial and conviction.
What is ineffective assistance of counsel?
Ineffective assistance of counsel is a legal claim that your trial attorney failed to provide assistance at the level expected of a reasonably competent attorney, and this failure prejudiced your defense and likely affected the trial outcome. This includes situations where your attorney failed to investigate, failed to cross-examine witnesses effectively, failed to file necessary motions, or failed to object to improper evidence or jury instructions. To succeed on this claim, you must show both that your attorney’s performance was deficient and that this deficiency resulted in prejudice to your case. Proving ineffective assistance requires detailed analysis of what your attorney did or failed to do and how those failures harmed your defense. Courts recognize that trial attorneys sometimes make strategic choices, so not every mistake constitutes ineffective assistance. However, abandoning defenses, lack of investigation, and failure to prepare are often found to be deficient performance. An appellate attorney can review your trial record and attorney’s actions to determine if ineffective assistance is a viable claim in your case.
How much does an appeal cost?
Appeal costs vary depending on the complexity of your case, the issues involved, and the amount of work required. Our firm offers competitive rates and different fee arrangements to make appeals accessible. Many appeals can be completed within a reasonable fee range, and we discuss costs clearly with you upfront. Some clients may qualify for payment plans or sliding scale fees based on financial circumstances. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality appellate representation regardless of financial situation. When you consult with us, we provide a detailed explanation of what your appeal will involve and what it will cost. We work efficiently to keep costs manageable while still providing thorough, effective representation. Remember that the cost of an appeal is an investment in your freedom and future. An appeal that results in reversal or sentence reduction delivers tremendous value. Contact us to discuss fees and explore how we can work within your budget.
How long does the appeals process take?
The appellate process typically takes between one and two years from filing the notice of appeal to receiving a decision from the appellate court. After filing the notice of appeal, the trial transcript must be obtained, which can take several months. Your attorney then has time to research, analyze, and write the appellate brief, which is a detailed document presenting your legal arguments. The prosecution responds with their own brief. Oral arguments may then be scheduled before the appellate court panel. Finally, the court takes time to deliberate and issue a written decision. The exact timeline depends on the court’s caseload and the complexity of your issues. Some appeals move faster than others. Throughout this process, your attorney keeps you informed of progress and developments. While waiting for the appellate decision can be stressful, this time allows for thorough legal analysis and careful presentation of your arguments. In some cases, interim relief or sentence modifications may be possible while the appeal is pending. Your attorney can discuss realistic timelines for your specific situation.
What happens if I win my appeal?
If you win your appeal, the outcome depends on the specific grounds for reversal. The appellate court may reverse your conviction entirely and require dismissal of charges, or it may reverse the conviction and remand for a new trial. In some cases, the court reverses your sentence and remands for resentencing. If charges are dismissed, you go free. If remanded for new trial, the prosecution must decide whether to retry you, and you have another opportunity to defend yourself. If remanded for resentencing, a judge imposes a new sentence that complies with law. Winning an appeal is life-changing. It validates that errors in your trial were significant and harmful. It provides another chance for justice. Some appellate victories result in immediate release; others lead to new trials where the evidence against you can be challenged again. In all cases, an appellate victory represents a major step toward restoring your freedom and your future. This is why thorough appellate representation is so important.
What if my appeal is denied?
If your appeal is denied, your conviction is upheld. However, even a denial does not end all legal options. You may be able to file additional motions, seek reconsideration, or pursue other post-conviction remedies. In some cases, federal habeas corpus review may be available if constitutional violations occurred. Some appellants pursue clemency or pardon applications. An attorney can review the denial and discuss what further steps might be possible in your situation. Appellate denials are disappointing, but they do not mean your case cannot be addressed through other means. Federal courts sometimes provide review opportunities that state appellate courts do not. Post-conviction relief remains possible if new evidence emerges or if constitutional violations are discovered. Your attorney will explore all available options to continue fighting for your freedom and justice.
Can I appeal a guilty plea?
Yes, you can appeal even if you entered a guilty plea, but the grounds are more limited than appeals after trial. You cannot appeal the conviction itself or challenge the facts if you entered a knowing and voluntary guilty plea. However, you can appeal issues that arose before the plea, such as illegal search and seizure. You can also appeal if your attorney provided ineffective assistance during plea negotiations, if the court failed to ensure your plea was knowing and voluntary, or if the sentence is illegal. Appealing a guilty plea focuses on procedural and constitutional issues rather than guilt or innocence. For example, if evidence against you was obtained illegally and your attorney failed to file a motion to suppress it before recommending a plea, that failure might support an appeal. If the sentencing court imposed an illegal sentence, that can be appealed. An attorney can review the circumstances of your guilty plea and discuss whether appellate grounds exist in your case.
Should I file an appeal even if my chances seem low?
Sometimes even appeals with challenging odds are worth pursuing. Even if the likelihood of success is not high, the potential benefit—your freedom or sentence reduction—is enormous. A thorough attorney will honestly assess your case and discuss whether viable grounds for appeal exist. If strong grounds exist, the chances of success improve significantly. Even appeals with more difficult issues deserve consideration given what is at stake. Our firm will discuss realistic prospects in your case so you can make an informed decision. Additionally, pursuing an appeal preserves issues and creates a record that may support future post-conviction efforts. Sometimes appeals uncover new grounds for relief that weren’t initially apparent. Most importantly, having competent appellate representation gives you the best possible chance of success, whatever those odds may be. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your specific situation and determine whether appeal is advisable in your case.