appeal

In one sentence

A request to a higher court to review and overturn a lower court's decision.

Plain English

An appeal is when someone who lost a case asks a higher court to look at what happened and decide if the lower court made a legal error. You don't get a new trial; instead, appellate judges review the record and the law to see if the original decision was correct. Appeals are common in criminal cases when a defendant believes they were wrongly convicted or unfairly sentenced.

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Example

A man is convicted of robbery and sentenced to 10 years. His lawyer believes the judge made an error in allowing certain evidence. They file an appeal, and the appellate court agrees the evidence was wrongly admitted, so they overturn the conviction.

Used in a sentence

“After losing at trial, the defendant filed an appeal arguing that the judge had made a mistake in interpreting the law.”

Related terms

judgment

The court's final decision in a criminal case, determining guilt or innocence and imposing sentence.

guilty plea

A defendant's admission in court that they committed the crime(s) charged, typically resulting in conviction without trial.

Innocent Until Proven Guilty

The legal principle that a defendant is presumed innocent unless the prosecution proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Discovery

The legal process where parties exchange information and evidence before trial.

Due Process

The constitutional right to fair legal procedures and treatment by the government.

adjudication

A court's official decision or judgment in a legal case.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.