How to Appeal a Conviction or Civil Judgment in Nevada: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Rights

Appeals are not just a legal process, they are a crucial opportunity for individuals to correct potential errors that may have occurred during the trial, whether in a criminal or civil case. In Nevada, the appeal process is an essential part of the justice system, offering individuals the opportunity to seek a review of their case by a higher court. This guide, based on the Nevada Appellate Guidebook prepared by the Office of the Nevada Attorney General, outlines the key steps involved in filing and pursuing an appeal in Nevada.

What is an Appeal?

An appeal is a legal process that allows individuals or parties to challenge a court decision they believe is unjust or incorrect, whether that decision comes from a criminal conviction, a sentence, or a civil judgment. It is important to understand that an appeal is not a new trial, but rather a request for a higher court to review the decisions made in the original trial to ensure that the legal process was fair and that no mistakes were made that could have affected the outcome.

Steps to Appeal in Nevada

1. Filing a Direct Appeal

Eligibility for Appeal

If you’ve been convicted of a crime, received a sentence, or faced an unfavorable civil judgment in Nevada that you believe was unjust, you have the right to file an appeal. Appeals can be filed in criminal cases, civil judgments, or family court decisions. While criminal appeals are more common, individuals involved in civil cases also frequently file appeals to challenge decisions they believe were incorrect or unfair.

Filing Deadlines

In Nevada, appeals must be filed within 30 days from the date of your sentencing or final judgment, or court decision. Missing this deadline means losing your right to appeal, so it’s important to act quickly.

Preparing the Appeal

The appeal process starts with the appellant’s brief, where you outline the errors you believe occurred during the trial or sentencing, or court proceedings. For criminal cases, this could include legal errors, improper jury instructions, or evidence issues. In civil cases, it could include errors in the application of the law or misinterpretations of key facts. The brief is the core of your appeal, explaining why the case should be reviewed or overturned. Working with an experienced attorney is crucial to ensure your appeal is strong and well-prepared.

2. The Appeal Process

Review by the Nevada Supreme Court or Court of Appeals

After filing an appeal, your case will be reviewed by either the Nevada Supreme Court or the Nevada Court of Appeals. The court decides which cases to review based on the nature of the case and the issues raised. 

Submission of Briefs

Both the appellant and the respondent must submit briefs. The appellant’s brief outlines the errors made during the trial or sentencing, or judgment, while the respondent’s brief defends the original decision. These briefs are the main focus of the court’s review.

Oral Arguments

In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments where attorneys present their cases directly to the judges. This can help clarify issues and influence the court’s decision.

Court’s Decision

The court will either:

• Affirm the original decision, upholding the conviction, sentence, or civil judgment.
• Reverse the decision, leading to a new trial, a different outcome, or dismissal of charges in criminal cases, or a new judgment or ruling in civil cases.
• Remand the case back to the lower court for further proceedings or reconsideration.

This decision is typically final, but it’s important to remember that further appeals to higher courts are possible in some cases.

After the Appeal

Options if the Appeal is Denied

If your appeal is denied, there are still options available depending on whether your case is civil or criminal. One option is to file a petition for rehearing. This is a request for the same court to reconsider its decision, usually on the grounds that the court overlooked or misunderstood key points in the case. It’s an opportunity to ask the court to revisit the arguments made in the appeal.

For criminal cases, another option is to pursue state or federal habeas corpus proceedings. Unlike appeals, habeas corpus petitions challenge the legality of your detention based on constitutional grounds. These petitions can address issues such as ineffective assistance of counsel, violations of your rights during the trial, or other constitutional matters.

For civil cases, the options may include filing a motion for reconsideration in the lower court or pursuing further relief in a higher court if the denial was based on procedural errors or legal misinterpretations.

Pursuing Further Appeals

If all other options have been exhausted, whether in a criminal or civil case, you might consider appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court. This is a rare and difficult process, as the Supreme Court only hears a small percentage of cases each year. To pursue this route, you would need to file a petition for a writ of certiorari, asking the Supreme Court to review your case. However, the likelihood of the Supreme Court granting a review is very low, so this option is generally considered only in cases involving significant legal questions or constitutional issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filing an Appeal in Nevada

What are the chances of winning an appeal?

The chances of winning an appeal depend on the specifics of your case, including the strength of the legal arguments and the presence of any errors during the trial. While not all appeals are successful, having a skilled appellate attorney can significantly improve your chances.

How long does the appeal process take?

The appeal process in Nevada can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. It’s important to be prepared for possible delays, especially if the court requests additional information or schedules oral arguments.

Can new evidence be introduced during an appeal?

No, appeals are not about introducing new evidence. The appellate court reviews the trial record to determine if there were legal errors, but it does not consider new evidence or testimony.

What happens if I lose my appeal?

If your appeal is denied, you may still have options. You can file a petition for rehearing, asking the court to reconsider its decision. In criminal cases, you can pursue state or federal habeas corpus proceedings to challenge your detention on constitutional grounds. For civil cases, you may seek further review through motions or appeals to higher courts. Although rare, you can also petition the U.S. Supreme Court, but they only review cases involving significant legal or constitutional issues.

Do I need a lawyer to file an appeal?

While you can represent yourself, having a knowledgeable appellate attorney is highly recommended. The appeals process is complex, and an attorney can help ensure that your appeal is filed properly and argued effectively.

How much does it cost to file an appeal?

The cost of an appeal can vary depending on the specifics of your case. Harris Nevada Law offers both flat fees and contingency fee options based on the nature of the case. Each case is unique, and the fee structure is determined by its specific needs and requirements.

Secure Your Appeal with Harris Nevada Law

Whether you’re challenging a criminal conviction, a sentence, or a civil judgment, it’s crucial to act quickly. The appeal process has strict deadlines, and the sooner you seek guidance, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Don’t wait until it’s too late—getting the right legal advice early on can make all the difference.

Contact Harris Nevada Law today to discuss your case and explore your options. Our experienced appellate attorneys are here to help you navigate the appeal process and fight for your rights. Let us guide you through every step of the way.