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St. Louis Appeals Attorneys

Last updated on June 6, 2025

At KesslerWilliams, we understand the weight of a criminal conviction and the urgency to act. We know you’re scared and confused, but you’re not alone, and you still have options. The appeals process can be a lifeline, offering a chance to correct mistakes and seek justice. Whether our team handled your case or not, we can help you explore your appeal options. 

Rationale For An Appeal

In most cases, your appellate attorney will need to help you file a notice of appeal with the trial court within 10 days after a judgment against you. Your appeal may involve one or more of the following:

  • New evidence was discovered.
  • Proof has come to light that evidence was withheld during the criminal trial.
  • Your defense counsel was ineffective.
  • The sentence, including the term of imprisonment imposed, is excessive in relation to the offense.
  • There is evidence of jury misconduct.

You may appeal a criminal case multiple times, starting with a direct appeal. Additional levels include post-opinion motions, post-conviction motions and federal habeas corpus appeals. Your options will depend on the specific aspects of your case and conviction.

At KesslerWilliams, we welcome inquiries from people who have been convicted of crimes as well as from fellow attorneys. We are well qualified to evaluate a case in search of reasons to appeal, file an appeal or play any supporting role in the development of an appeal.

What Types Of Convictions Can Be Appealed?

It’s possible to appeal a criminal conviction if there was a legal error in a person’s trial that affected the fairness of its outcome. Some examples of mistakes that would warrant a criminal appeal include the following:

  • Improper jury selection
  • The jury received incorrect instructions
  • Insufficient evidence provided by the state
  • The court allowed evidence they shouldn’t have or did not allow crucial evidence
  • The prosecutor said something they weren’t allowed to in their closing argument

It is crucial to know that while there are many appeal options to consider, you cannot appeal a conviction if your sentence is suspended.

Can I Appeal A Conviction Even If I Pleaded Guilty?

Yes. Although appealing a conviction after a guilty plea is more limited, there are still circumstances where it may be possible. Generally, you cannot appeal the actual conviction, but you can challenge aspects of the process that led to the plea.

For example, if your plea was not entered knowingly and voluntarily or if you were not fully informed of the consequences, this may be a basis for appeal. Similarly, if your defense attorney provided ineffective assistance during the plea process, such as failing to investigate a defense, pressuring you to plead guilty or misinforming you about your options, an appeal may be appropriate. In some cases, jurisdictional defects or sentencing errors may also open the door to an appellate review.

Possible Outcomes Of An Appeal

An appeal outcome cannot be guaranteed, but understanding potential results can help set expectations. Depending on the specific issues raised, the appellate court may rule in several different ways:

  • Affirmation: The appellate court agrees with the trial court’s decision, and the original conviction and sentence remain in place.
  • Reversal: The appellate court overturns the conviction, which could result in charges being dropped or the case being retried.
  • Remand: The appellate court sends the case back to the trial court with instructions to hold new proceedings. This could involve a new trial, resentencing or hearings on specific legal issues.
  • Modification: The appellate court adjusts part of the original sentence or judgment, such as reducing the length of a sentence or correcting a legal mistake.

These outcomes depend on the strength of the legal arguments raised and the appellate court’s interpretation of the trial record.

Ineffective Assistance Of Counsel (IAC) In Detail

Claims of ineffective assistance of counsel are among the most common grounds for appeal or post-conviction relief. Some examples of attorney failures that may justify an appeal include:

  • Not conducting a thorough investigation of the facts or key evidence
  • Failing to interview or present testimony from crucial witnesses
  • Omitting to file important motions, such as a motion to suppress evidence
  • Advising or coercing a client into pleading guilty without exploring alternatives
  • Making serious errors during the sentencing phase

Courts use the Strickland test to evaluate claims. To succeed, you must show that your lawyer’s performance was deficient and that the deficiency prejudiced your case, meaning the outcome would likely have been different with competent representation.

Don’t Wait: Contact Us For Help With A Criminal Appeal

Time is critical in appeals cases, so don’t delay. Reach out to us now to discuss your options. Call 314-720-5476 or complete our online contact form.