Appellate advocacy · California
California Criminal Appeals & Post-Conviction Attorney
Our firm represents clients seeking to challenge criminal convictions and sentences through the appellate and post-conviction process. From our Sherman Oaks office, we handle matters throughout California.
- Direct appeals
- Writs of habeas corpus
- Post-conviction motions
Careful review. Persuasive written advocacy.
Our firm handles direct appeals, writs of habeas corpus, and post-conviction motions, carefully examining trial court proceedings to identify legal errors, constitutional violations, and grounds for relief.
We are committed to providing thorough legal research, persuasive written advocacy, and strategic representation to protect our clients’ rights and pursue meaningful relief. The appropriate procedure depends on the record, the issues, and the history of your case.
Different paths to challenge a conviction or sentence
- Direct appeals. An appeal generally asks a reviewing court to examine legal errors in the trial court record. It is not a new trial. We review the proceedings and applicable law to develop focused written arguments.
- Writs of habeas corpus. A habeas corpus petition may raise constitutional issues that require evidence beyond the trial record. Availability depends on the claim and procedural history; it is not a substitute for every appeal.
- Post-conviction motions. Certain motions may offer a way to seek relief after judgment when the law and your circumstances permit. We assess the relevant legal requirements and explain which options may apply to your conviction or sentence.
How appellate representation works
- Review the history. Discuss the conviction, sentence, relevant dates and any prior appeals or petitions. Identify the available orders, transcripts and case documents.
- Analyze the legal issues. Examine the record and research potential legal errors, constitutional violations and procedural requirements.
- Develop the arguments. Prepare clear, carefully supported written advocacy tailored to the available procedure and the issues in your case.
- Pursue available relief. Provide strategic representation and explain developments, possible outcomes and next steps. Relief is never promised.
Deadlines and procedural requirements can be strict and vary by case. Contact an attorney promptly; do not wait for a website inquiry to protect a filing deadline.
Convictions with immigration consequences
Asya handles motions to vacate convictions based on adverse immigration consequences. A case-specific review is needed to assess the legal grounds, the record and the applicable requirements. Vacating a conviction or changing an immigration outcome is not promised.
Prepare for an appellate consultation
Have the case number, county, judgment or sentencing date, and any prior appellate filings available if possible. Mention upcoming deadlines when you call. The office will explain which records are needed for a meaningful review.
- Judgment, sentencing orders and available court notices
- Prior notices of appeal, briefs, petitions or decisions
- A list of upcoming deadlines and questions for your attorney
- Information about where the trial court case was heard
Do not send confidential case records through the website or include sensitive details in an initial email. Arrange a private consultation to discuss them.
Frequently asked questions
- Is an appeal the same as a new trial?
- No. A direct appeal generally reviews the existing trial court record for legal error. Habeas corpus and other post-conviction procedures have different purposes and requirements.
- Can every conviction or sentence be challenged?
- Available options depend on the facts, the law, deadlines and prior proceedings. A review is needed to assess potential grounds; no particular result can be promised.
- Do you handle appellate matters throughout California?
- Yes. The firm represents clients in criminal appeals and post-conviction matters throughout California, from its office in Sherman Oaks.
Related pages
Free, confidential consultation
Call 818-400-0293 or email Asya@Ovsepyan-Law.com. Office: 15303 Ventura Blvd., Suite 900, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.
