What is an Appellate Court?

An appellate court plays a crucial role in the judicial system by reviewing decisions made in lower courts. When someone asks, “What does an appeal mean in court?” it refers to the process of seeking a review of a legal case heard in a trial.

The Constitution of Indiana protects the right to appeal if a person has been convicted and sentenced. In this stage, you seek to overturn your conviction or reduce your sentence by proving legal errors occurred during your case. Importantly, the appellate court does not hear new evidence or retry the facts of the case. Instead, the focus is on reviewing legal issues that may have impacted the initial trial to protect your rights and ensure a fair legal process.

The Steps in the Indiana Appeals Process

Step One – Filing a Notice of Appeal
To begin the appeals process, the first step is to file a “Notice of Appeal” with the trial court that issued the conviction or sentence. This document serves as a formal notification that you are challenging the trial court's decision, which triggers the appeal process. It is important to file this notice within a specific timeframe after the trial to ensure the appellate court can accept your case.

Step Two – Filing the Appeal With the Appellate Court
After filing the Notice of Appeal, the next phase involves submitting the appeal to the appellate court. This requires you to prepare a document called the “Brief of Appellant.” In this brief, you need to outline your case's relevant facts, identify the laws that apply, and explain the errors made by the trial court that impacted your verdict or sentence. Following your brief, the opposing party, known as the appellee, will present their own arguments in a document called the “Brief of Appellee.”

Step Three – Oral Arguments
Oral arguments may occur at the discretion of the appellate court. If they take place, both sides will typically be allotted 20 to 30 minutes to present their case before the judges. During this session, attorneys may face questions from the judges aimed at clarifying points from the written briefs. It is crucial to remember that no new evidence can be submitted at this stage; the focus remains on the arguments already presented.

Step Four – Opinion
Once the briefs and oral arguments are concluded, the appellate court will deliberate before issuing its ruling. The court's decision will either affirm or reverse the trial court's ruling. If the decision is affirmed, it means the trial court's conviction stands as is. If the decision is reversed, the court may order a new trial or alter the sentence. This outcome can significantly impact your legal status and the direction of your case moving forward.

Contact Dixon & Moseley, P.C. for Legal Assistance Today

Understanding the appeals process is vital for anyone seeking justice after a trial. If you are wondering, “Can you appeal a civil case?” the answer is yes – individuals have the right to appeal various court decisions.

To move forward with your appeal and ensure your rights are protected, it is essential to have knowledgeable legal support. Reach out to Dixon & Moseley, P.C. today for expert guidance on your legal options. We are here to help you navigate the appeals process with confidence.