What is the purpose of an appeal in criminal cases?

An appeal is a legal process that allows individuals to challenge the court’s decisions related to criminal cases. The purpose of an appeal is to give the defendant the opportunity to have their case considered by a higher court. By appealing the case, the defendant is asking the reviewing court to reverse the decision or modify the sentence of the original court. In South Carolina, the appeal process starts with the filing of an appeal in the state’s Supreme Court or the Court of Appeals. The appeal is then assigned to a panel of three judges who review the arguments presented in the appeal. After considering the arguments, the judges either affirm or reverse the decision of the lower court. If the decision is affirmed, the defendant must accept the original sentence or ruling. If the decision is reversed, the original sentence or ruling is overturned and a new sentence or ruling is issued by the court. In addition to reviewing the original court’s decisions, the judges in an appeal can also consider new evidence that was not presented in the lower court. This is important because it allows individuals who may have been wronged an opportunity to be heard and have their case considered. It is also important because it helps to ensure that justice is served, as it allows individuals to determine whether or not the original court made a fair and just decision.

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