Top Minneapolis, MN Appeals Lawyers Near You

Criminal Appeals

If you’ve been convicted of a crime you have a right to appeal your conviction in most cases. A Minneapolis criminal appeals attorney may be able to get your conviction overturned if there is sufficient evidence to merit this outcome.

Criminal Appeals Lawyers

A criminal appeals lawyer will review your first court case to determine whether an event occurred that would make your conviction unjust. It’s important to note, an appeal is not a new case. Rather, it is a review of the first case.

Criminal appeals attorneys generally look for procedural or legal mistakes that were made in the first case that resulted in your conviction. For example, your attorney may review jury instructions or how evidence was introduced. Mistakes during this period could render a jury verdict void.

Best Time to Seek Legal Help

No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.

Points to Consider Before Hiring a Lawyer

Experience. Regardless of the type of legal matter you need help with, an experienced attorney will usually be able to get you better results.

Competence. Determine an attorney’s expertise by asking about their track record for the issue you need help with resolving.

Fit. There are plenty of good attorneys out there; make sure you find one you are comfortable working with.

Common legal terms explained

Personal jurisdiction – Requirement that a particular court have authority over a person, in order to bind that person to the judgment of the court, based on minimum contacts. International Shoe Co v. Washington is a landmark Supreme Court case outlining the scope of a state court’s reach in personal jurisdiction.