24/7 call for a free consultation 212-300-5196

AS SEEN ON

EXPERIENCEDTop Rated

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW
INVENTING ANNA

When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.

Client Testimonials

5

THE BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR.

The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives! He’s not JUST a lawyer representing us for a case. Todd and his office have become Family. When we entered his office in August of 2022, we entered with such anxiety, uncertainty, and so much stress. Honestly we were very lost. My husband and I felt alone. How could a lawyer who didn’t know us, know our family, know our background represents us, When this could change our lives for the next 5-7years that my husband was facing in Federal jail. By the time our free consultation was over with Todd, we left his office at ease. All our questions were answered and we had a sense of relief.

schedule a consultation

Blog

Hiring the Best Federal Appeals Lawyer in Queens After Conviction

March 21, 2024 Uncategorized

Hiring the Best Federal Appeals Lawyer in Queens After Conviction

If you or a loved one has been convicted of a federal crime in Queens and wish to appeal, hiring an experienced federal appeals lawyer is crucial to building the strongest possible case. Navigating the complex appeals process on your own is extremely difficult, but the right lawyer can identify issues for appeal, craft compelling legal arguments, and aggressively advocate to overturn wrongful convictions.This article provides an overview of the federal criminal appeals process and how an attorney can assist you after a conviction in Queens. It also offers guidance on how to select the best federal appeals lawyer to meet your specific needs.

Understanding the Federal Appeals Process

After being convicted at a federal trial in Queens, you have the right to appeal your case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. This appellate court handles all federal appeals from New York, Connecticut, and Vermont.The first step is filing a Notice of Appeal within 14 days of the entry of judgment. This notifies the court that you intend to appeal your conviction. Next, the record from the trial court is prepared and sent to the Circuit Court.You or your lawyer will then submit a brief laying out the legal issues in your case and arguments for overturning your conviction. The government also submits a brief, and oral arguments may be held before a panel of three Circuit Court judges.The Circuit Court will then issue a written decision, either affirming your conviction or reversing it in whole or in part. You can also petition the U.S. Supreme Court to review your case, but very few petitions are granted.

Why Hire a Federal Appeals Lawyer?

Hiring an experienced federal appeals lawyer is critical for several reasons:

  • In-Depth Knowledge of the Appeals Process: An attorney who specializes in federal criminal appeals will understand the complex rules and procedures involved at each stage. They can ensure deadlines are met and handle all filings.
  • Identifying Appealable Issues: An appeals lawyer will thoroughly examine the trial record, pinpointing any potential mistakes by the judge or violations of your rights. Even issues your trial lawyer missed could lead to your conviction being overturned.
  • Crafting Strong Legal Arguments: Creating compelling arguments requires an intimate understanding of federal appeals law and precedent. An experienced appeals lawyer can interpret case law to construct arguments in the strongest light possible.
  • Outstanding Oral Advocacy: During oral arguments, an appellate lawyer’s presentation can have a major influence on the judges. An exceptional oral advocate may sway the court by forcefully arguing your case.
  • Avoiding Procedural Default: Failure to properly raise issues on appeal can result in “procedural default”, meaning you lose the right to raise them later. An lawyer ensures you do not accidentally waive arguments.

How to Select the Best Federal Appeals Lawyer in Queens

If you decide to appeal your federal conviction in Queens, take time to research appeals lawyers and find the best one for your situation. Here are important factors to consider:

Relevant Experience

Seek out a lawyer with extensive experience handling federal criminal appeals specifically, not just trial work or state appeals. Ask how many federal appeals cases they have worked on and what results they have achieved for past clients. Success overturning prior convictions is a good sign.

Knowledge of Second Circuit Rules and Judges

Find an attorney well-versed in the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure as well as the local rules and internal operating procedures for the Second Circuit. Understanding the judges who will decide your appeal is also key.

Appellate Specialization and Credentials

While any licensed attorney can handle appeals, those certified as appellate specialists by the American Bar Association have substantial specialized education. Opt for a lawyer “AV” rated in appellate law by Martindale-Hubbell as well.

Resources and Staff Support

A strong appeals lawyer has trained staff to assist with research, editing briefs, and preparing oral arguments. Large law firms have more resources to dedicate to appeals than solo practitioners.

Compatible Personality and Communication Style

Most importantly, choose a federal appeals lawyer you feel comfortable with. Look for someone who listens attentively, answers your questions clearly, and works collaboratively to fight for the best possible outcome for you.

Conclusion

Being convicted of a federal crime can feel devastating, but appealing your case provides hope. Hiring a knowledgeable, dedicated federal appeals lawyer maximizes your chances of success with the complex appeals process. Invest time finding the best attorney for your situation in Queens. With an experienced lawyer guiding you, overturning your conviction is possible.

Lawyers You Can Trust

Todd Spodek

Founding Partner

view profile

RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

Associate

view profile

JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

Associate Attorney

view profile

ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

view profile

CLAIRE BANKS

Associate

view profile

RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

view profile

CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

view profile

Criminal Defense Lawyers Trusted By the Media

schedule a consultation
Schedule Your Consultation Now