03 Aug Can a conviction be overturned?

On behalf of Jack B. Rubin, PA posted in Criminal Appeals on Monday, August 3, 2015.

In Maryland, being convicted of a crime is a serious matter, even if it is only a relatively minor offense. The problem is that a mark on your criminal record can have a significant impact on your future. Moreover, the penalties for conviction can often be severe, ranging from fines to time in prison. This can put your life on hold and even strain your relationships with friends and family. As such, building a solid defense is extremely important.

Unfortunately, even if you are innocent, sometimes things can go wrong in the investigative process or even during your trial. If the judge makes a mistake or there is some form of miscarriage of justice, you could be falsely convicted. Similarly, a mistake of this nature may allow you to challenge a conviction even if you were involved in the crime in question, if it casts reasonable doubt on your guilt.

As this article on criminal appeals explains, a guilty verdict is usually only able to be overturned in cases where an error of law made by the court can be seen to have either significantly or patently had an effect on the outcome of your trial. While this is uncommon, it can still happen. Also, in cases where the sentencing is contrary to that prescribed by law, the matter is likely to be returned by the appellate court in order for the sentence to be reconsidered.

If you are considering making an appeal or you have any other concerns about your trial, you might benefit from the advice of an attorney. Every case is unique, but he or she may be able to advise you about what to do next and the options available to you if you wish to challenge the outcome of your trial.