How Long Does a Federal Criminal Appeal Take?

If you are unhappy with the result you or your loved one received in a trial and want to file an appeal, it is crucial that you work with an attorney who is willing to put in the hard continuous work required to ensure you have the best chance at success. The Grabel & Associates federal appeals team is available right now to begin working with anyone in Michigan who has been convicted of a federal felony or misdemeanor, and we know what it takes to win both verdict and sentence appeals. Call our 24/7 toll free hotline now at 1-800-342-7896 or contact our firm online for a free initial case consultation to learn more about how to file an appeal, what the appellate process is in a federal case, and what steps you need to take for a successful appeal.

If you are wondering how long a federal criminal appeal could take, you may be disappointed with the answer. The appellate process is incredibly slow, especially at the federal level, and most federal criminal appeals take upwards of a year or more. It is possible for an appeal to take even longer, or perhaps your case could move more quickly, but if you want to appeal your case decision, it is crucial that you prepare for a long and drawn-out battle.

If you are going to be investing your time and resources in a lengthy legal battle, there is only one result that you will be happy with – victory. The Grabel & Associates federal defense attorneys know what it takes to win and our firm is ready now to begin working with you or your loved one during any stage of the appellate process. You may only have the right to appeal for a limited time, so act quickly. Ironically, though the appellate process takes so long, the time you have to file an appeal goes by very fast. Work with an attorney early on and make sure you take the proper steps to file an appeal.

First Steps in Filing a Federal Criminal Appeal in Michigan

Following sentencing in a case, you will file notice of appeal. The court reporter will then order transcripts from the trial, which can potentially be done in advance if you have been convicted and know you may want to appeal. Once you have a transcript of everything that was said and done in your case, you move into the briefing stage, during which your attorney will prepare a written account of your argument for the court. After briefs are prepared by both sides, the appellate court takes over the case.

Federal Appellate Courts in Michigan – Filing a Criminal Appeal

Once the court takes over a case, you may have to wait for a long time to hear back on next steps. Appellate courts have many cases to handle, and often too few judges to go around. Additionally, appellate courts have long records to review, which can take months.

If a court decides it is necessary, oral argument will be ordered. This can prolong an appellate case even further, though may indicate that the court is more seriously considering your appeal. Working with an attorney will help you to keep track of how your case is proceeding, and give you the best shot at a favorable end result.

When a court finishes with briefs and, if necessary, oral arguments, the panel of judges will decide what should happen in the case. They may make a ruling overturning the case, they may affirm the lower court judgment, or they can remand the case back to another court with instructions. This can mean heading back to court, further prolonging an ending to your legal battle.

The appellate process is not short, and definitely not easy. That is why you need an experienced attorney on your side helping you handle every aspect of the appellate process. Our experienced trial lawyers are prepared to do whatever it takes to get you the results you deserve, and will work for as long as it takes to ensure justice is served. Contact our firm right away for individualized case advice and learn more about what you can do to continue to fight for your best interests.

Continue Fighting After a Federal Conviction

Call 1-800-342-7896 or contact our firm online for a free initial consultation and more information concerning your appellate options. Our licensed federal attorneys are ready now to begin working with you or your loved one following a federal conviction in Michigan.