Understanding Your Right to an Appeal

Criminal charges are serious and can have a real, lifelong impact on a person. Because of the emotional, financial, personal, and professional implications that a criminal conviction have for an individual, it is important to ensure that the judge or jury has reached an accurate conclusion. Oftentimes, a defendant who has been convicted is unconvinced that the initial decision handed down was correct or rightfully obtained. The appeals process is in place to provide reasonable protection against false convictions.

If you feel that your DUI charge was handled falsely in court, you have the right to appeal the initial decision to a higher court. This process requires a solid defense and a firm conviction that the decision of the court was improper. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer, James Powderly, by calling 401-662-9006 if you are interested in filing an appeal.

Levels of Appeal

Though the decision of a district court carries a great deal of weight with other courts, it does not have to be the final decision. It is your right to petition to have your case appealed to a higher court. This process can be beneficial if you feel that your legal rights were violated or that the initial court did not accurately uphold the laws that it seeks to enforce. The following facts are important to know about the appeals process:

• An appeal must be filed within 5 days of the district court’s decision
• This appeal must be made in writing if claimed outside of the court or the court clerk’s office
• Any appeal must indicate the time at which it was petitioned

Contact Us

If you feel that your DUI conviction warrants an appeal, you need a strong defense. Please contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer, James Powderly, by calling 401-662-9006.