What is the purpose of an appeal in criminal cases?

The purpose of an appeal in criminal cases is to ensure justice is served. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as overturning a criminal conviction or adjusting a sentence. Appeals are made to higher courts after a criminal case has been heard and decided in a lower court. When a defendant is found guilty at trial, they often have the right to appeal, or challenge, the court’s decision. This right is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, which gives individuals the right to a fair and just trial. By appealing a verdict, a defendant is essentially raising the issue that the outcome was incorrect or unfair. In the state of Virginia, the defendant must file a Notice of Appeal with the circuit court within 10 days of their conviction. The notice must include the reasons why they believe the decision was unfair or incorrect. The appeals process can take up to a year or more and requires a thorough understanding of legal procedures and terminology. Ultimately, the goal of an appeal in criminal cases is to ensure that justice is served. This may mean overturning a conviction and absolving the defendant of their wrong doings or changing the sentence to ensure a more just result. In doing so, citizens are given assurance that their legal trials are fair, unbiased, and just.

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What is the purpose of an appeal in criminal cases?

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