How is a criminal appeal evaluated on appeal?

In West Virginia, criminal appeals are evaluated by the Supreme Court or Circuit Court of Appeals, depending on the complexity and type of case. The appellant must demonstrate that the decision in the lower court was incorrect in law. On appeal, the appellate court will consider the evidence presented at the lower court hearing and the arguments of the appellant, which must be supported by legal authorities. The appellate court will determine whether the decision of the lower court was correct in law and will evaluate the accuracy of the facts as found by the lower court. If the appellate court finds that the decision of the lower court was incorrect, it can reverse the ruling, uphold the ruling, or make new rulings on certain questions of law or fact. The appellate court also may review the sentence given by the lower court to determine if it was appropriate. The appellate court can modify the sentence if it is determined that the original sentence was too harsh or if a new sentence should be imposed. Finally, the appellate court can order a re-trial if the appellant demonstrates that there is new evidence that was not available at the time of the lower court decision. The appellate court may also order a re-trial if the appellant can demonstrate that the lower court’s decision was incorrect on certain questions of fact or law.

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