Appeals Process: How Do You Appeal A Criminal Case? (PC 1237)

To begin the appeals process, an appeal may be taken by the defendant:

(a) From a final judgment of conviction except as provided in Section 1237.1 and Section 1237.5.

A sentence, an order granting probation, or the commitment of a defendant for insanity, the indeterminate commitment of a defendant as a mentally disordered sex offender, or the commitment of a defendant for controlled substance addiction shall be deemed to be a final judgment within the meaning of this section. Upon appeal from a final judgment the court may review any order denying a motion for a new trial.

(b) From any order made after judgment, affecting the substantial rights of the party.

After a defendant has been convicted at a bench trial or jury trial in a California trial Court, he/she has the right to appeal that conviction. The defendant or his/her attorney must initiate an appeal by filing a "Notice of Appeal" within thirty days of sentencing if the conviction was for a misdemeanor or within sixty days of sentencing if the defendant was convicted of a felony. Deadlines and timelines are particularly crucial in filing an appeal.

If you or a loved one has been convicted of a crime and need an experienced attorney to guide you through the criminal appeals process, it is imperative you contact our law firm. Call us now at 888-749-0034. Hiring an experienced appellate attorney is crucial and essential. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have been helping people for over thirty years in appealing their convictions. With offices throughout the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, San Diego and Orange Counties, we will be there when you call.