What is the process of a criminal appeals court?

In Washington, the appeals process for criminal cases is handled by the Court of Appeals. This court hears appeals from decisions made by the Superior Court in all criminal cases. The appeals process begins after someone is convicted of a crime by the Superior Court. The convicted person then has a right to file his or her appeal with the Court of Appeals. When the appeal is filed, the Court of Appeals reviews the records and arguments of the case. The court will then decide if any errors were made in the lower court’s decision that could alter the outcome. If such errors are found, the Court of Appeals may reverse the conviction or decrease the sentence set by the lower court. Once the appeal is filed, the Court of Appeals reviews the evidence presented to the lower court, as well as any additional evidence provided by the appellant. The court then decides if any legal errors were made or if any new evidence was presented that was not considered in the lower court. Once the court has reviewed all the information, it will make a decision as to whether or not to reverse the conviction. If the Court of Appeals finds that the lower court made an error, or finds new evidence that could affect the outcome, then the conviction or sentence may be reversed or reduced.

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What is the process of a criminal appeals court?

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