A criminal case does not end with a conviction. Although the road is harder after you’ve been found guilty, that isn’t the end of the fight. If you’ve been wrongfully convicted or are serving the wrong sentence, you can take your case to an appellate court to overturn your conviction or get resentenced.
Understanding Criminal Appeals in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Constitution guarantees the right to appeal your case to a higher court if something went wrong at the trial level. To succeed on appeal, you have to be able to show that there was a mistake made during the pre-trial, trial, or sentencing process. Since appellate courts don’t find dissatisfaction with the verdict to be a justification for overturning a conviction, it’s important to have an attorney who has the experience needed to identify the issues you have and to present them in a way that follows the strict rules and regulations appeals courts tend to have.
Our Appellate & Post-Conviction Services
Sentence Modifications: Challenging illegal or improperly calculated sentences.
Direct Appeals: Challenging incorrect evidentiary rulings, insufficient evidence claims, weight of the evidence claims, illegal sentences, excessive sentences, and other constitutional violations
Habeas Corpus Petitions: Federal challenges to state convictions.
Why Choose Bickerton Legal Services for Your Appeal?
Attorney Lea Bickerton has over 20 years of experience representing clients in preliminary hearings, pleas, sentencing hearings, jury and non-jury trials, direct appeals, post-conviction relief actions, and ChildLine appeals. While her practice is based in Allegheny County, she has handled cases throughout the Commonwealth. With the length and breadth of her experience, she is able to identify unique issues and navigate the courts to get the best results for her clients.
Contact Bickerton Legal Services for a free 15-minute Criminal Appeal case screening
Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Appeals in Pennsylvania
How long do I have to file an appeal?
Generally, 30 days after the date of sentencing or the date that post-sentencing motions were decided.
Can I appeal if I entered a guilty or no-contest plea?
Yes. The grounds for appeal are limited after you’ve entered a plea, but it is possible.
How long does a direct appeal take?
A direct appeal generally takes nine months to a year and a half.
Can I get bail while my appeal is pending?
Bail pending appeal is possible. A defendant is entitled to bail on appeal if their sentence calls for less than two years of imprisonment. For a longer sentence, you can file a motion for bail pending appeal where it will be up to the judge’s discretion whether or not to grant bail.