What is the role of an appellate defense counsel?

An appellate defense counsel is an attorney who helps defendants in criminal matters at the appellate court level in California. These attorneys specialize in appellate law, which is distinct from the trial law that governs proceedings in California’s lower courts. An appellate defense counsel’s role is to work with their clients to ensure that the arguments made in the appeal are persuasive and legally sound. The primary duty of an appellate defense counsel is to review the trial record, evaluate the legal theories on appeal and argue in favor of their client’s position before the appellate court. The appellate defense attorney will manage all aspects of the appeal, including briefing a set of legal arguments in their client’s favor, filing written motions, preparing oral argument strategies and researching existing case law. Some appellate defense counsel will also advise their clients about whether to accept a plea bargain or proceed to trial. In addition to the legal aspects of their role, the appellate defense counsel will also provide moral support to their clients and their families, helping them to navigate the appeals process and providing guidance throughout the duration of the case. An appellate defense counsel must remain informed of the latest developments in criminal law in order to better defend their clients and keep up with changes in the legal field.

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What is the role of an appellate defense counsel?

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