How Are Appeals Decided?

After a criminal conviction, an appeal may be an available option to help you or your loved one avoid excessive punishment or wrongful conviction. Grabel & Associates has extensive experience working in Michigan criminal appeal cases, and our appellate court attorneys understand what judges will be looking for in your post-trial case. Founding attorney Scott Grabel has worked in the Pre-Hearing division of the Michigan Court of Appeals, and has a comprehensive understanding of the appeals process and what is considered in appellate cases. Contact our skilled and knowledgeable team now for aggressive representation in your criminal case.

Michigan Appellate Lawyer in Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Throughout Michigan

An appellate case is not a new trial, and it is important to review all motions and appeals options before going forward with an appeal. Contact an experienced Michigan appeals lawyer as soon as possible so that you have access to the information you need to make an informed decision about your post-conviction legal action. In an appellate case, either a verdict itself or the resulting sentence may be appealed, and while a court will still hear the case, the process is much different than a trial court case. The majority of an appellate case takes place outside the courtroom through preparation and writing, and a panel of judges rather than a sole judge or jury will make the decision. Contact Grabel & Associates if you have any questions about Michigan criminal appeals, and work to fight for a better case result.

How Does the Michigan Appellate Court System Work?

In the state of Michigan, the circuit court serves as the appellate court for district trial court cases, while the Michigan Court of Appeals hears appeals from the circuit court. The Supreme Court is the appellate court for the Michigan Court of Appeals, and oversees the operations of the trial courts.

After reviewing your case and determining what court you need to file your appeal to, you can file an appeal by right, or request to file an appeal by application for leave. An appellate case will not hear new testimony or accept new evidence except in rare situations, and will review the details of initial court proceedings to determine if your result was just. A small panel of judges will review your case (usually three) except in certain “en banc” cases where a larger group of judges hears the case. There is a strict and time-sensitive process that plays a large role in appellate cases, and working with an attorney will assure you comply with the guidelines of the court of appeals.

Criminal Appeal Process in Michigan

After filing a notice for appeal, your attorney will present your appellate argument in a written brief, which the panel of judges will review. The appellee, or party that brought charges upon you (such as the state) will also have the opportunity to write a brief that will be reviewed along with the defendant’s, and it is critical to ensure you have a compelling and persuasive brief prepared by an experienced lawyer. Some appeals may be selected for oral arguments, however you need to be prepared to win without a chance to argue your case in front of the judges. Even if your case is selected for oral argument, your lawyer will have around 15 minutes to present your concerns, making it even more important to hire the best possible representative.

Appellate court decisions are final, unless the case is sent back to the lower court level or accepted by the Supreme Court. Work with Grabel & Associates now for Michigan appeals defense in any of the state’s 83 counties.

Our Approach to Criminal Appeal in Michigan

Our criminal defense law firm represents clients in even the most complex legal situations, and no matter what the details of your case, you can schedule a free consultation now and find out more about your post-conviction options. Our attorneys have experience working for clients in state and federal appeals, and know how to write and argue your case in the most effective way possible.

It is extremely difficult to win a criminal appeal in Michigan, and nearly impossible without an outstanding attorney. Grabel & Associates is available now to begin working with you or your loved one and our team of attorneys will do everything possible to fight for a better case result.

Contact Scott Grabel for Appellate Decision Representation

If you would like to know more about how appellate court cases are decided, or if you have any other legal questions concerning your post-conviction case, contact Grabel & Associates now. We are available 24/7 at our toll free number, 1-800-342-7896.

Our lawyers know how appeals are decided in Michigan and will do everything they can to fight for a decision that works in your favor. Contact our Michigan criminal defense firm now for appellate representation throughout your post-trial case.