FAQ
Answers about the appellate process.
A few of the questions clients most often bring to the office before retaining appellate counsel.
Common questions
What is a criminal appeal?
A criminal appeal is a request for a higher court to review the proceedings of a trial court for legal error. The appellate court does not retry the case; it reviews the trial record for issues preserved by trial counsel.
How long do I have to file an appeal in Louisiana?
On direct appeal to the five Louisiana Courts of Appeal, the appellate deadlines are short and strictly enforced. Your trial counsel should have filed a motion for appeal within 30 days of the day you were sentenced or the day the trial court ruled a motion to reconsider. Missing the deadline can permanently foreclose review.
Which courts do you appear before?
Susan represents clients before all five Louisiana Circuit Courts of Appeal and the Louisiana Supreme Court on writ applications.
What kinds of cases do you handle on appeal?
Susan handles a full range of criminal appeals including armed robberies, sex offenses, and homicides, among others.
Do you handle appeals statewide?
Yes. Susan’s appellate practice is statewide across Louisiana. She is also licensed in North Carolina.
How do I begin?
Call the office at 504.596.7921 or use the contact form. Susan will discuss your case, its procedural posture, and determine your legal options.