What is the difference between a direct and an indirect appeal?

A direct appeal is when a defendant appeals their conviction directly to a higher court. This is done when the defendant was found guilty at the trial court level, and they believe the conviction was inappropriate or unfair. By filing a direct appeal, the defendant is asking the higher court to review their case and the conviction itself. An indirect appeal, on the other hand, is when the defendant appeals a ruling made by the trial court other than the conviction itself. This could include rulings made on evidence, sentencing, or other issues involved in the proceedings. The defendant is asking the higher court to review a specific issue or ruling in the trial court, not the conviction itself. In California, the higher court that handles direct and indirect appeals is the California Court of Appeal. Depending on the facts of the case, the parties involved may be able to appeal a decision to the California Supreme Court after the Court of Appeal has ruled. It is important to note, however, that the Supreme Court is not required to hear all appeals.

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What is the difference between a direct and an indirect appeal?

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