25 Mar Court of Appeals exists to carefully reconsider verdicts

On behalf of Jack B. Rubin, PA posted in Criminal Appeals on Friday, March 25, 2016.

If you are convicted of a crime and believe the verdict was incorrect or that your opportunity for a fair trial was in some way compromised, you may be able to have the situation corrected by having the Court of Appeals review your case. Maryland’s Appellate Court system is designed to help ensure that justice is properly served. It is an extremely important part of our judicial system, and as our state’s highest tribunal, the Court of Appeals is steeped in history.

Maryland’s Court of Appeals was established in 1776 as an outgrowth of the Constitution. In its early years, the court was situated in a variety of areas before finding its current Annapolis home in 1851. Seven judges comprise the court. Members of the Court of Appeals initially receive their positions by virtue of an appointment by the Governor.

After their first term, judges run unopposed to retain their offices. Should the voters choose to not retain a judge, or if the vote ends in a tie, the office is vacated and a new judge must be appointed. If the voters elect to retain the judge, he or she will have a 10-year term of office.

One of the most important aspects of the Court of Appeals is that all seven judges will hear any case being reviewed unless there is a reason for a judge to be disqualified. At least five judges must be part of a case review. This is critical because it means that the facts of the case will be scrutinized and discussed among several legal experts before a final decision being rendered.

So, if you believe your case deserves further consideration, you may be able to have it heard by the Court of Appeals. But it is critical that an applicant prepares a convincing argument for having his or her case reviewed.  It is possible to greatly enhance your opportunities by employing the services of an attorney who understands the appeals process. The attorney may be able to help you demonstrate why your conviction should be overturned.