Under Alabama criminal law, if a municipal or district court finds you guilty, you can appeal the decision and begin a new trial in the circuit court. This gives you a trial "de novo," which means it's as if no trial had occurred before. Learn more about how to secure this second opportunity and improve your chance of winning below.

How to File an Appeal Under Alabama Criminal Law

1. File at the Right Time & Place

Generally, appeal paperwork must be filed within 14 days after the date the court pronounced your sentence, or after the date a timely post-trial motion was denied, whichever happens later. To exercise your legal rights, you must file a notice of appeal with the clerk of the circuit court in the relevant county. If your city spans more than one county, file your notice in the county where the alleged crime occurred.

2. Ask for a Jury Trial

You have the right to demand a jury trial in your notice of appeal paperwork. If you do this properly, a jury of 12 people will hear and decide your case. State criminal law requires juries to reach unanimous decisions, so they all must agree you're either guilty or not guilty of each charge presented.

3. Post Bond

To perfect your appeal, you must post a new bond in the amount the municipal judge sets. However, the court may authorize your release without an appearance and cost bond or security deposit. If court costs remain in the municipal or district court, you must also pay those.

When you need a strong advocate who’s skilled in criminal law appeals, contact Angela L Walker PC Law Office in Foley, AL. With more than 20 years of legal experience, this criminal defense lawyer is ready to help protect your rights and fight for the best outcome in your case. For more information about her services, visit her online. To schedule a consultation for legal advice, call (251) 970-2575.