Expert Support When You Believe Your Conviction Is Wrong
Being convicted of a criminal offence can be life changing. If you feel the verdict was unfair, the evidence was misunderstood, or the law was applied incorrectly, a carefully prepared appeal may give you a chance to put things right. Our network of specialist criminal appeal solicitors regularly reviews convictions and advises on whether there are realistic grounds to challenge them.
An appeal against conviction is not a second trial. The court is looking for specific errors, such as mistakes in law, serious procedural irregularities, misdirections to the jury, or fresh evidence that was not available at the original hearing. A proper conviction appeal starts with a detailed review of the case papers, trial transcript and evidence, followed by clear advice on whether there is an arguable basis to say the conviction is unsafe.
What Our Conviction Appeal Solicitors Can Do For You
Reviewing Trial Transcripts and Evidence
A conviction appeal begins with a forensic review of what actually happened at trial. Solicitors in our network obtain and analyse the judge's summing up, witness evidence, legal submissions and exhibits to identify where things may have gone wrong.
- •Detailed review of transcripts, case papers and jury directions
- •Assessment of the strength and consistency of prosecution evidence
- •Consideration of how the defence case was presented at trial
Identifying Errors of Law or Procedure
The Court of Appeal is primarily concerned with whether the conviction is unsafe. That often involves identifying legal or procedural errors that may have affected the fairness of the trial or the safety of the verdict.
- •Misdirections or inadequate directions given to the jury
- •Wrongful admission or exclusion of key evidence
- •Serious procedural irregularities or unfairness during the trial process
Grounds of Appeal and Advice on Prospects
Not every concern about a trial will amount to a viable ground of appeal. You need realistic, specialist advice about whether your case has enough merit for the court to consider it.
- •Clear written advice on the strengths and weaknesses of a potential appeal
- •Drafting focused grounds of appeal that address real points of law or fairness
- •Honest guidance where the prospects are limited or risks are high
Applications to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division)
If there are arguable grounds, the next step is to prepare and lodge the appeal application properly and within time limits, or to explain why an out of time appeal should still be heard.
- •Preparing appeal notices, grounds and supporting documentation
- •Dealing with single judge consideration and renewal hearings
- •Arranging representation by experienced appeal advocates at any hearing
How Our Appeal Solicitors Work With You
Specialist Appeal Focus
Our network includes solicitors who regularly handle conviction appeals, not just general criminal defence. They understand how the Court of Appeal approaches "unsafe" convictions and what makes a ground arguable.
Realistic, Honest Advice
Appealing is not risk free. You will receive straightforward advice on time limits, prospects of success and possible outcomes so you can make informed decisions about whether to proceed.
End-to-End Support
From the initial review of your case through to any hearing in the Court of Appeal, your solicitor will guide you through each stage and keep you updated in clear, understandable language.
Real Appeal Examples
Case Study: Jury Misdirection
Our client was convicted after a jury trial for a serious offence. On review, the appeal solicitor identified that the judge's directions on intent did not correctly reflect the law. Grounds were drafted focusing solely on that error. The Court of Appeal agreed the misdirection was significant and ruled the conviction unsafe.
Case Study: Fresh Evidence
A client maintained their innocence but had been advised there was no point appealing. A new solicitor obtained expert evidence on mobile phone cell-site data which had not been explored at trial. The fresh evidence application was granted, and the new material undermined key prosecution timings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to appeal my conviction?
In most cases, you have 28 days from the date of sentence to lodge an appeal against conviction. If that time has already passed, it may still be possible to apply out of time, but you will need to explain the delay. Early advice is critical so that time limits do not become an issue.
What counts as a ground of appeal?
Grounds usually focus on legal or procedural errors, misdirections to the jury, unfairness in the trial process, or important evidence that was not available at the time of trial. Simply disagreeing with the verdict is not enough. A specialist solicitor can help identify whether there is something the Court of Appeal is likely to consider arguable.
Will I need to go back to court?
Many appeals are decided after a hearing at the Court of Appeal in London. In some cases you may be produced from custody or appear via video link; in others, you may be allowed to remain in prison while your legal team represents you. Your solicitor will explain what to expect in your particular case.