Appeals Attorney in Lexington, SC

We Handle Criminal Appeals in Lexington and Throughout South Carolina

At Kinard Law Group, our South Carolina criminal appeals attorney has the specialized experience that clients can rely on. Appellate law is complicated. We help defendants understand their options and develop the most effective, sensible strategy for their appeal. If you have any questions about a criminal appeal, we are here to help.

You Have the Right to Appeal a Criminal Conviction

A criminal conviction in South Carolina does not always end the case. Defendants have the right to seek appellate review when legal errors affect the outcome. To be clear, criminal appeals do not retry facts or hear new evidence. Instead, they examine whether the trial court applied the law correctly and/or followed required procedures. The focus is on the correction of material mistakes.

Where Criminal Appeals are Heard in South Carolina

In South Carolina, most direct criminal appeals proceed to the South Carolina Court of Appeals. However, there are certain cases, including those involving constitutional questions, that may be reviewed by the South Carolina Supreme Court. Appellate jurisdiction depends on the nature of the conviction and specific issues being raised on appeal.

You Must Cite Grounds for Appeal

Arguing that you disagree with a criminal conviction and/or a criminal sentence is not enough. An appeal must identify specific legal errors that occurred in the trial court. Those errors must appear in the record and must have affected the outcome of the case. Without clearly articulated, preserved grounds for appeal, the appellate court will affirm the conviction. Some of the most common reasons why criminal cases in South Carolina are appealed include improper admission or exclusion of evidence, incorrect jury instructions, unlawful searches or seizures, prosecutorial misconduct, ineffective assistance of counsel, and sentencing errors.

How Our South Carolina Appeals Attorney Can Help

A conviction is stressful, frustrating, and overwhelming. However, it is not always the end of the road in the criminal justice process. At Kinard Law Group, we are here to help you navigate all aspects of your appeal. When you reach out to our Lexington office, you will have an opportunity to consult with a South Carolina criminal appeals attorney who can:

• Hear your story and answer questions about your case;
• Investigate your case, taking action to identify your options for appeal;
• Handle all of the criminal appellate paperwork; and
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on getting you the best outcome.

Contact Our Lexington Appeals Lawyer Today

At Kinard Law Group, our Lexington criminal appeals attorney is knowledgeable, experienced, and has the specialized expertise you can rely on. Have any questions about preparing an appeal for your case? Contact us today to set up your completely confidential consultation. With an office in Lexington, we handle criminal appeals throughout South Carolina.