How to Choose an Appellate Attorney?

Who Should You Trust?

The market is saturated with lawyers so it can be a daunting taks to know who to trust.

Choose An Attorney with Extensive Experience in Criminal Law.

Your appellate attorney should have extensive experience in BOTH criminal trial practice and appellate advocacy.

Ask them questions:

How long have you been practicing law?

Have you ever tried a murder case? A rape case? An armed robbery?

Have you ever written an appellate brief? What kind?

Can I see an example of a brief that you wrote?

Hiring an appellate lawyer is a significant investment.  Beware of lawyers who tell you that they will "win" your appeal before they conduct a thorough review of your case.

The Louisiana State Bar Association's website will allow the public to search all attorney's licensed in good standing in the State of Louisiana AND it will tell you when they were licensed.

Resolved disciplinary records for attorneys can be found on the LADB website.

Familiarity with the Appeals Process

The appeals process is intricate and differs significantly from trial proceedings. A working knowledge of the criminal appeals process is crucial so that your attorney is well-versed in the specific rules and procedures governing appeals. Your attorney should know how to navigate the system efficiently, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that the necessary documentation is filed correctly.

Strong Analytical Skills & Attention to Detail

"The devil is in the details." ~ Unknown

Your attorney should possess strong analytical skills that enable them to dissect trial records and identify errors or issues first. They can spot procedural mistakes, evidentiary issues, or ineffective assistance of counsel that may have impacted the trial's outcome.

Exhaustive Legal Research & Persuasive Writing Skills

Every case is unique, but each case review should include a systematic and thorough review of common issues, mistakes, and technical nuances that even the most experienced trial counsel (and judges) may overlook. Your attorney should have a working command of the law and be payiing attention to new cases that are published by the Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

Identify and Communicate Your Legal Options

Attorneys who practice appellate law know which issues have merit and which issues do not. Effective and reputable advocates will be honest with you if they do not find a significant error and they will never give you false hope. They will NOT tell you what you want to hear. They will give you an honest and informed legal opinion about your options on appeal and, if you are unsuccessful, they will advise you on your other legal options.