Appellate Attorneys

Marko Law's Appellate Department stands out due to its extensive experience, including multiple published opinions that have influenced Michigan law. Our department has a track record of success in defending verdicts on appeal. While most lawyers are fortunate to have a single published opinion in their careers, we have a substantial number of cases that have shaped legal precedents in the state. Additionally, our team's upcoming arguments before the Michigan Supreme Court further highlight our commitment to delivering exceptional appellate representation.

New evidence in a postconviction motion refers to information that was not presented during the trial or initial round of appeals and has the potential to impact the outcome of your case significantly. To qualify as "new evidence," it must convincingly establish your innocence or raise substantial doubts about your conviction. If new evidence is successfully introduced, it could be a crucial factor in your appeal.

An appeal by right is available to individuals who were found guilty of a felony after a trial. It allows for an automatic appeal to the Court of Appeals, where your case will be reviewed. On the other hand, an application for leave to appeal is required for those who accepted a plea deal or for cases where an appeal by right is not available. The Court of Appeals decides whether to accept your appeal based on your application.

Winning a Michigan criminal appeal can be challenging. Statistics indicate that only about 2 to 3% of criminal convictions are overturned in the Michigan Court of Appeals. However, it's essential to remember that statistics don't tell the whole story. The right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome. While success isn't guaranteed, skilled appellate lawyers can improve your chances by presenting strong arguments and addressing legal issues in your case.

The duration of the appellate process can vary, but in general, it can take anywhere from 15 months to more than 2 years. This timeline includes filing a claim of appeal, preparing transcripts, briefings, internal reviews, oral arguments (if applicable), and, finally, a written decision. The specific timeline may depend on the complexity of your case and court scheduling.

While many individuals possess the right to appeal, a prevalent blunder is initiating an appeal without consulting an experienced attorney and prior to exploring alternative legal avenues. While a criminal appeal has the potential to improve your case's outcome, other motions and legal remedies might offer a better chance of success. If you or someone close to you has been convicted, contact a skilled and knowledgeable Michigan criminal appeal lawyer. Our legal team will help you examine all available legal options and clarify the repercussions of each before you make a decision.