The sun has not yet set on the case against Sam Bankman-Fried, the former cryptocurrency whiz kid convicted of seven conspiracy and fraud charges on Oct. 26. His attorneys are sure to appeal the convictions and possible decades-long sentence that is likely to follow....
Federal Appeals
Why seeking post-conviction relief and social media don’t mix
Navigating the legal process can be a complex and sensitive undertaking, especially when seeking post-conviction relief. One important piece of advice that often gets overlooked is the necessity of staying off social media during this critical time. Whether you’re...
What are examples of Brady violations?
A Brady violation occurs when the prosecution fails to disclose evidence that is favorable to the defendant's case. This evidence can include information that might help prove the defendant's innocence, impeach the credibility of a witness or reduce the severity of...
Why do federal appeals happen?
People sometimes view an appeal as a way to overturn a conviction. For instance, someone may have been indicted on federal fraud charges or drug charges. They were then convicted in court and sentenced to jail. They want to appeal that conviction because they feel...
Should you appeal your RICO conviction?
The law is harsh regarding violations of the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, and a conviction is life-changing. Understanding the potential outcomes of an appeal is essential to helping you decide if it's in your best interests. The...
How much time do you have to appeal a federal conviction?
If you are convicted of a federal crime like drug trafficking or a white-collar crime like fraud, you may have the right to appeal the verdict. To boost your odds of a successful appeal, however, it helps to understand how the process works. For some reason, however,...
Does a lawyer’s mistake open the door to a criminal appeal?
Whether someone faces state or federal charges, a conviction is likely the last thing they expect to endure if they choose to invest their time, energy and resources to fighting those charges at trial. However, even when there seems to be a straightforward defense...
4 false beliefs about the federal criminal appeals process
To those who have fought against a federal conviction and lost, the possibility of a successful appeal shines like a beacon of hope. Unfortunately, many who have hung their hopes on appealing a conviction lack a proper understanding of the process. For example, not...
Can you appeal a criminal conviction on constitutional grounds?
All too often, law enforcement officers overstep their legal boundaries, leading to constitutional rights violations during the arrest process. Suppose you were convicted of a federal offense and believe your rights were violated during your arrest. In that case, you...
4 mistakes to avoid when appealing a federal conviction
Appealing a federal conviction is a complex and challenging process that requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific legal procedures. It is, therefore, crucial to thoroughly prepare to increase your chances of a successful appeal. You should also...