APPEALS & POST –
CONVICTION
Post-Conviction Appeals Attorney in Boston
A conviction following a guilty plea or trial doesn’t necessarily signify the end of your case. Our team at the Coughlin Law Group specializes in post-conviction relief and as experienced appeal lawyers, we’re able to explore the various remedies that might be available to challenge your conviction or acknowledgment of sufficient facts.
Post-Conviction Relief: Don’t Wait, And Never Give Up. We Won't Give Up On You.
A criminal conviction carries lifelong repercussions including fines, incarceration, probation, and potentially invasive measures like court-mandated classes or drug and alcohol screenings. It may even lead to the loss of certain privileges, like driver’s licenses.
Our seasoned attorneys at the Coughlin Law Group are adept at navigating the numerous procedural and substantive hurdles our laws set up against overturning cases ending in conviction or acknowledgment of sufficient facts. We undertake comprehensive case investigation to identify legal and factual errors. The post-conviction relief services we offer include:
- Direct appeals
- Motions for new trials
- Petitions to the Supreme Judicial Court under G.L. c. 211, § 3
- Petitions for writs of habeas corpus
Whether your case is in state or federal courts, we will guide you through the entire criminal appeals process aimed at challenging the criminal conviction.
the Complex Massachusetts Appellate Court Process
Even after conviction, you have options. You can opt to file an appeal or initiate a post-conviction motion. This process begins with your post-conviction attorney, who can advise you on the best approach to appeal your conviction.
Our firm possesses comprehensive knowledge of the rules governing criminal appeals in Massachusetts. We can offer you an honest assessment of your case and clearly outline the steps needed to launch an appeal.
For direct appeals, the process starts with your attorney filing a Notice of Appeal. You only have 30 days from the date of your conviction or sentencing, whichever is later, to file this notice.
Massachusetts Appeals Court
The majority of appeals are heard by the Massachusetts Appeals Court. However, an appeal from a first-degree murder conviction goes directly to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
The appeal hearing process differs significantly from the trial level. Here, a panel of three judges hear the arguments and make a decision. Given this significant difference, it’s crucial to have an attorney with substantial experience arguing complex criminal appeals on your side.
Contact our MAssachusetts post conviction attorneys
When you need a skilled post-conviction attorney or an appeals court specialist in Boston or the broader Massachusetts area, don’t hesitate to contact the Coughlin Law Group at 617-758-8888. We’re dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are defended.