You didn’t do it, but somehow it looks like you did – so much so that the jury came back with a guilty verdict. You plead with your lawyer privately, saying, “Please do something! I can’t go to prison for something I didn’t do!” Depending on a variety of factors, a lawyer who believes the verdict can be overturned would take the next step. The process of appealing a conviction in Michigan can be time-consuming and complicated, however, so it will likely be a stressful time for you, unfortunately.
The bright side is that once that conviction is reversed, you can begin to put the pieces of your life back together.
Appealing a Conviction in Michigan
Most types of cases can be appealed, including criminal and civil cases. Generally, approximately 90% of the cases before the Michigan Court of Appeals conclude about 1 1/2 years after the filing, but a variety of factors could change the time frame.
If your case was heard in one of the district courts in Michigan and you want to appeal, it must be filed with the circuit court in the same county as that district court.
If your case was tried in the circuit court, it must be appealed to the Michigan Court of Appeals. Documents may be filed in person or by mail at one of the four district offices:
First District
Cadillac Place
3020 W. Grand Blvd, Suite 14-300
Detroit, MI 48202-6020
Phone: (313) 972-5678
Second District
Columbia Center
201 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 800
Troy, MI 48084-4127
Phone: (248) 524-8700
Third District
State of Michigan Building
350 Ottawa, NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2349
Phone: (616) 456-1167
Fourth District
2nd Floor, Hall of Justice
925 W. Ottawa St.
P.O. Box 30022
Lansing, MI 48909-7522
Phone: (517) 373-0786
Once an appeal is initiated, the person who filed the appeal – known as the appellant – will be responsible for a number of other issues, such as explaining the reasons for the appeal in writing and filing a copy of the transcript from the first case.
One general factor to be aware of is that various filing deadlines exist for initiating an appeal. Ask your attorney or review the Michigan Court Rules documents to learn more about the deadline in your particular situation.
Answers to Your Questions
The process of appealing a conviction in Michigan is very complicated, so it may be in your best interest to have a knowledgeable attorney help you.
The state of Michigan has several detailed documents in place to answer the questions you may have as well. Visit the Michigan One Court of Justice website for self-help guides and additional information about appeals cases.
Tags: Appealing a Conviction, Michigan Court of Appeals, Michigan Courthouses