In the UK’s criminal courts, a conviction or sentencing doesn’t have to be the final conclusion. A defendant has the option to appeal the conviction if they are able to argue that it was unsafe or appeal the sentence if it was too harsh.
If your case was originally heard in the Magistrates Court, you could appeal to the Crown Court, and if unsuccessful, take it to the Court of Appeal. You must appeal within 21 days of your Magistrates Court trial. If you pleaded not guilty at trial and were convicted, you can appeal against both your conviction and sentence. If you pleaded guilty, then you are only able to appeal your sentence. The appeal will be heard before a Judge and two magistrates in the Crown Court. If appealing a conviction, then the same evidence from the original trial will be heard, but if you have new evidence, this could also be used to support your case.
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How can a criminal law solicitor help me appeal pre-convictions and cautions?
If you have a previous conviction or caution, this can potentially have a major impact on your future. The impact can often be in relation to employment. Our team helps individuals mitigate the impact of historic convictions or cautions. This may involve challenging the conviction or caution with a view to minimising its impact, so you can move forward and achieve your goals.
Can you appeal a conviction?
Yes, if your case was originally heard in the Crown Court, you can appeal to the Court of Appeal. You have 28 days to appeal the decision. If you pleaded not guilty at trial and were convicted, you can appeal both the conviction and sentence if you can show that something went ‘wrong’ at trial.
If appealing a conviction, you will normally need to introduce new evidence that was not available at your original trial. If you are appealing a sentence given, you will need to demonstrate that the sentence was either wrong in principle or excessive in length.
We have a specialist criminal team of solicitors who can provide you with a second opinion, advice and represent you if you wish to appeal your conviction, sentence or both.
Why choose B P Collins as your solicitors?
A criminal law solicitor plays a crucial role in assessing whether there are valid grounds to challenge a conviction or sentence and guiding a client through the appeals process. This may involve reviewing the original case, identifying legal errors or procedural issues, gathering new evidence where appropriate, preparing appeal documentation, and representing the client at appeal hearings
Our criminal defence solicitors can help with your appeal, whether you are facing a conviction for assault, sexual assault, harassment, cyber crime, theft, driving offences or any other crime.
With over 60 years of experience, we’re consistently ranked by Chambers UK and The Legal 500 for the strength of our criminal law practice. Operating from London, Thame and Gerrards Cross, we offer tailored support across a wide range of allegations to help our clients protect their interests and achieve the best possible outcome.
Jonothan Moss and Rubin Italia have both been accredited individually by The Law Society for their expertise in Criminal Litigation. Rubin became a Higher Court Advocate in early 2007 and can practice in all criminal courts.
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For further information or advice please contact one of our conviction appeal lawyers in London, Thame and Gerrards Cross, on 01753 889995 or enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.
