At ADADA Legal, we represent clients in all aspects of criminal appeals, helping you challenge a court’s decision when you believe an outcome was unjust, legally incorrect, or based on unfair procedures. An appeal provides an important opportunity to have your case reviewed by a higher court and, where possible, achieve a more favourable result.
A criminal appeal is the process of asking a higher court to review a lower court’s decision — whether it concerns a conviction, sentence, or both. Appeals are not automatic; they must be based on recognised legal grounds such as errors in law, procedural unfairness, misapplication of evidence, or, in certain cases, fresh evidence that was not available at the original hearing.
We assist with the key types of appeals available under NSW law:
Conviction Appeals
Challenge a finding of guilt if you believe the verdict was unreasonable or affected by legal error.
Sentence Appeals
Seek a review of a penalty you believe is excessive, inappropriate, or inconsistent with comparable cases.
Combined or All-Ground Appeals
Appeal both the conviction and the sentence together, where both aspects of the original decision are disputed.
The appeals process involves several important stages — and strict deadlines:
A Notice of Intention to Appeal must generally be filed within a limited timeframe (often within 28 days of the original decision).
This includes obtaining court transcripts, evidence books, judgments and preparing written submissions that clearly outline the legal errors or grounds on which your appeal is based.
In higher courts such as the District Court or Court of Criminal Appeal, legal arguments are presented before a panel of judges.
The appellate court may uphold the original decision, vary the sentence, or overturn the conviction entirely depending on the strength of the grounds and the legal submissions presented.
Appeals require a deep understanding of criminal jurisprudence, procedural rules, and appellate advocacy. At ADADA Legal, we carefully review your case to:
Identify potential errors or grounds for appeal in the original proceedings.
Prepare comprehensive appeal books and legal submissions.
Advise on the prospects of success and manage time-sensitive filing requirements.
Represent you professionally before appellate judges to pursue the best possible outcome.
Time limits for criminal appeals are strict and can vary depending on the court and type of appeal. Acting early allows your legal team to prepare thoroughly, gather necessary materials, and ensure your appeal is lodged correctly and on time.
You may be able to appeal:
A conviction (a finding of guilt)
A sentence (if it is excessive or inappropriate)
Both the conviction and the sentence
The availability of an appeal depends on the court where your matter was finalised and the legal grounds available.
No. An appeal is not a re-hearing of the entire case. The appeal court reviews the original decision to determine whether a legal error occurred, the verdict was unreasonable, or the sentence was wrongly imposed.
Common grounds include:
An error of law
Procedural unfairness
The verdict being unreasonable or unsupported by the evidence
A sentence that is manifestly excessive
In limited circumstances, fresh evidence that was not available at the original hearing
Strict time limits apply. In most cases, a notice of appeal must be filed within 28 days of the conviction or sentence. Extensions may be possible in limited circumstances, but early legal advice is critical.
Depending on the original matter, appeals may be heard in:
The District Court
The Supreme Court
The NSW Court of Criminal Appeal
We will advise you on the correct appeal pathway for your case.
In some cases, yes. Appeal courts have the power to increase, decrease, or confirm a sentence. This risk is carefully assessed before proceeding, and we provide clear advice on prospects and potential outcomes.
While it is possible to represent yourself, criminal appeals involve complex legal arguments, strict procedural rules, and detailed written submissions. Having an experienced appeals lawyer significantly improves your ability to properly present your case.
At ADADA Legal, we:
Assess whether you have viable grounds of appeal
Advise you on prospects of success
Prepare and lodge appeal documents
Draft persuasive written submissions
Represent you in appellate courts
Contact ADADA Legal today for clear, confidential guidance and a strategic approach tailored to your situation.
If you’re facing criminal or traffic charges, early advice can make a critical difference. Contact ADADA Legal today for clear, confidential guidance and a strategic approach tailored to your situation. Complete the form and our team will be in touch promptly to discuss how we can help.
Suite 207/30 Campbell Street, Blacktown, NSW 2148
0451 444 446
info@adadalegal.com
