Can your attorneys give second opinions on criminal appeals issues?

Our attorneys at Stone River Law offer second opinions on criminal appeals, providing a fresh perspective on your case. We review court records to identify errors and assess the likelihood of success. Whether it's a justice court appeal or a district court decision, we're here to guide you through the…
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Can Our Attorney Give a Second Opinion on Criminal Appeals?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a second opinion on a criminal appeal, our attorneys at Stone River Law are here to help. Whether you want a fresh take on your case or want to make sure every option has been explored, we’ve got you covered. Costs will vary depending on the complexity of your situation, but we believe in being upfront about pricing.

Justice Court Appeals: A Different Ball Game

In Utah, justice court appeals work slightly differently than what most people think of as a traditional appeal. When you appeal a justice court decision, it automatically triggers a de novo trial or hearing in district court. In plain English, that means the case starts over from scratch, without the usual formalities of an appeal. So, instead of filing briefs and going through a lengthy appellate process, you’re essentially defending the case all over again.

Appeals from District Court: A More Complex Process

Appealing a district court decision, though, is a whole different story. It requires digging into court transcripts and records to figure out what went wrong during the trial or in pre-trial motions. Maybe the judge made a bad call on evidence, or the jury needed better instructions. Our job is to find those mistakes and see if they’re strong enough to challenge on appeal.

That said, not all mistakes lead to a win. Even if we find an error, Utah appellate courts often decide that some errors are “harmless.” This means they don’t believe the mistake was enough to change the outcome. So, while spotting issues is important, gauging the likelihood of success is equally critical.

Why Get a Second Opinion?

Appeals can be tricky, and sometimes a fresh set of eyes can make all the difference. A second opinion can uncover new arguments or give you a clearer picture of your options. At Stone River Law, we take a thorough approach to reviewing your case, offering candid advice to help you make informed choices.

Are you thinking about an appeal or want to know where you stand? Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to review everything and give you a straightforward, honest opinion about your case’s potential.

Originally Published: January 5, 2023

How can we help you?

Call us at 801-448-7451, or use this contact form.

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