Getting The Evidence Right Can Make Or Break An Appeal
Criminal appeals are built on paperwork. Transcripts, case files, exhibits, expert reports and fresh evidence applications all need to be properly identified, organised and presented. Our network of appeal specialists focuses on the detail, so nothing crucial is missed and the court sees your case at its strongest.
The appeal courts expect precise references to what was said, done and decided at trial or sentence. That means obtaining the right papers, spotting where the evidence does not match the findings and presenting any new material in a way that complies with the rules. Our Evidence & Documentation service supports your appeal team with each of these stages.
What Our Evidence & Documentation Service Includes
Obtaining And Analysing Case Papers And Transcripts
Before any appeal can be properly assessed, the full case history needs to be understood. That often means tracing and reviewing large volumes of material from the Magistrates' Court, Crown Court and previous solicitors.
- •Requesting and chasing trial, sentence and legal argument transcripts
- •Reviewing case papers to identify evidential gaps or inconsistencies
- •Cross-checking findings against what was actually said in court
Preparing Appeal Bundles And Supporting Documents
The Court of Appeal and Crown Court require properly indexed bundles that follow detailed procedural rules. Poorly prepared bundles slow cases down and risk important documents being overlooked by the judges.
- •Compiling appeal bundles in line with court practice directions
- •Creating clear indexes and page references for skeleton arguments
- •Ensuring all key exhibits and documents are properly included
Fresh Evidence Applications
In some appeals, new evidence that was not available at trial may be vital. Courts apply strict tests before allowing such material, so careful preparation is essential.
- •Identifying potential fresh evidence and its relevance to your case
- •Drafting supporting statements and applications to admit new material
- •Explaining why material was not available or used at the original hearing
Liaising With Experts And Witnesses
Appeals often depend on focused expert reports or additional witness evidence. Coordinating this properly and on time can be the difference between success and failure.
- •Instructing appropriate experts such as forensic, medical or technical specialists
- •Drafting clear instructions so expert reports address the real appeal issues
- •Gathering updated statements from key witnesses where appropriate
Why Evidence & Documentation Support Matters In Appeals
Appeal-Focused Case Analysis
We look at your papers through an appeal lens, concentrating on what the higher court will be interested in rather than simply repeating the trial.
Procedural Compliance
Appeal courts are strict about deadlines and format. Our network is used to working within those rules so your case is not undermined by technical issues.
Joined-Up Preparation
Evidence work is done hand in hand with the lawyers who will argue your appeal, ensuring the documentation supports the legal strategy.
Evidence & Documentation In Practice
Case Study: Transcript Reveals Misdirection
In one case, a full review of the judge's summing up transcript revealed that the jury had been incorrectly directed on an essential element of the offence. That passage became the centre of the grounds of appeal and permission was granted.
Case Study: Fresh Expert Evidence Admitted
In another case, the appeal team obtained a new expert report that cast doubt on technical evidence relied on at trial. A properly prepared fresh evidence application persuaded the Court of Appeal to admit the report and reconsider the conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to see every single document?
Not always. The starting point is usually key items such as the indictment, sentencing remarks, transcripts of the main hearings and core exhibits. Your appeal solicitor will then decide whether more material is needed to support particular grounds.
How long does it take to get transcripts?
Timescales vary, and delays are common. That is why it is important to request transcripts early and to factor this into any appeal strategy and time-limit advice.
Will you help choose and brief experts?
Yes. Your solicitor can identify appropriate experts, agree fees and prepare focused instructions so that reports are useful to the appeal court rather than simply repeating the trial evidence.