Criminal Appeals Attorney in St. Petersburg 

A criminal appeal offers a chance to challenge a trial court’s decision after a conviction or sentence has been entered. Unlike direct trials or post-conviction proceedings, appeals focus on reviewing legal errors made during the trial, rather than reexamining factual evidence.

Appealing a case requires specialized knowledge of appellate law and strict adherence to deadlines, making professional support essential. Bastos Defense helps St. Petersburg clients navigate this process by providing experienced representation aimed at presenting the strongest legal arguments on appeal.

Call (727) 353-6842 or contact us online to get started on your appeal today.

Common Grounds for Criminal Appeals

Appealing a criminal conviction or sentence means asking a higher court to review the decisions made in the original trial. This review focuses on identifying legal mistakes or errors that may have affected the trial’s fairness or the sentence’s legality. Not every issue qualifies for an appeal, but certain common grounds frequently serve as the basis for challenging convictions or punishments. Understanding these grounds can help you recognize whether your case may warrant an appeal.

Some reasons a criminal conviction or sentence may be challenged on appeal include:

• Legal errors during trial – Mistakes related to jury instructions, admission or exclusion of evidence, or procedural rulings can affect the fairness of a trial.
• Insufficient evidence – When the evidence presented was inadequate to support a guilty verdict beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Sentencing errors – Errors or abuses of discretion in how the court imposed a sentence.
• Voting or constitutional rights violations – Instances where rights guaranteed under the Constitution were infringed.
• Procedural errors – Mistakes during trial procedures impacted the defendant’s right to a fair trial.

These issues form the backbone of many appeals and can significantly impact the outcome.

The Criminal Appeals Process in Florida

In Florida, appeals must be filed promptly, usually within 30 days after the final judgment or sentencing, depending on the type of appeal. This strict deadline makes early action critical to preserving appellate rights.

The process involves submitting detailed appellate briefs outlining the legal errors, followed by possible oral arguments before the appellate court. The court may then affirm, reverse, or remand the case for further proceedings. Bastos Defense assists clients through every stage, ensuring filings meet legal standards and that your arguments are presented clearly and effectively.

Trust Bastos Defense for Your St. Petersburg Criminal Appeal

Local insight and in-depth understanding of Florida’s appellate courts set Bastos Defense apart. We take a strategic, thorough approach to each case, carefully reviewing trial records to identify appealable issues.

Maintaining open communication and keeping clients informed throughout the process is a priority, helping you feel confident in your representation. Bastos Defense focuses on protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome given the circumstances.

Client Experiences and Success Stories

Clients appreciate Bastos Defense for clear guidance and dedication during challenging appellate proceedings. Positive feedback often notes our responsiveness and the careful attention we bring to every case. When possible, we highlight successes where appeals have led to sentence reductions or case reversals.

Take the Next Step with Bastos Defense

If you believe there are valid grounds for a criminal appeal in your St. Petersburg case, don’t delay. Timely action is essential to protect your rights. Contact Bastos Defense today to schedule a thorough appellate consultation. We’re ready to review your case, explain your options, and provide experienced support through every step of the appeal process.