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Appeals

Texas Appeals Attorney

Comprehensive Texas State & Federal Appeals Services

After being sentenced for a criminal offense, Texas allows defendants to file an appeal requesting a higher court to review and change the decision originally made. Appeals are not based on new evidence; rather, the appellate court must determine if the evidence used in trial was legally sufficient to support a conviction. If you are hoping to file an appeal, your first step should be to secure legal representation.

The appeals process is complex and requires a lawyer well-versed in this unique area of the law. This is what you will find with Amarillo appeals Attorney Chris Hesse. He capably handles appeals at both the state and federal level and has over a decade of experience.

Looking to file an appeal? Ensure your best chance at a favorable outcome – dial (806) 350-6785 today.

What Is the Criminal Appeals Process in Texas?

Gavel - Texas criminal appeals process

In the State of Texas the appeals process is as follows: the defendant must file a notice of appeal within 30 days of judgment with the Court of Appeals, the defendant then has 30 days after filing to submit an appellate brief, and upon submission the State then has 30 days to reply to the brief.

It is first important to understand the difference between appeals for the state court and those for the federal court. While the state court has the final say on state laws and constitutions, it is possible for a state appeals case to get sent to the federal courts. The federal court is responsible for appeals of sentences that hold more significance, such as the constitutionality of a law or disputes between states.

There are two layers of appeals at the state level – the 14 Texas Courts of Appeals and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. The latter is the highest criminal appeal court in the state. Only death penalty cases go directly to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

Federal appeals follow their own path, starting with the federal district court and then moving to the circuit court. Ultimately, federal appeals will end at the United States Supreme Court. This is the final stop for any appeal, whether state or federal.

Enlist Amarillo's Experienced Appeals Legal Counsel

With so much riding on the outcome of your appeal, you cannot afford to entrust your case to just any Texas appeals attorney.

Our firm is unique in that we treat clients like individuals, taking the time to understand your goals before we begin developing the best strategy to achieve them. It is crucial that you act quickly, as the time limit for filing an appeal is limited.

Contact the Law Offices of Chris D. Hesse and learn how our Texas appeals lawyer can fight for your future!

Recent Reviews & Testimonials

    Chris Heese will go beyound and above to make sure you are taken care of. Chris Heese will fight for you and do what is right. I was pleased with the outcome of Chris Heese being my attorney.
    - Rob
    I have used Chris on two separate occasions he has always answered my calls, messages, and email. I would recommend him for anyone needing a lawyer.
    - Robert
    "He will go above and beyond to get the results that you are seeking."
    Chris is an outstanding lawyer. He fought hard for my husband to get his charge for a DWI dropped and of course, he was successful in doing so. He cares about his clients and will go above and beyond to get the results that you are seeking.
    - Edaena
    "I could not have received any better counsel."
    Mr. Hesse assisted me as local counsel on a very difficult federal case. I could not have received any better counsel. On time, on task, and on the spot with guidance and advice. Highly Recommended!
    - Scott
    "Chris was an absolute professional in the courtroom"
    I sat 2nd chair with Mr. Hesse on a Possession of Marijuana case in April of 2014. Chris was an absolute professional in the courtroom. He was able to narrow down on the proper issues during jury selection and succeeded with the suppression of the Marijuana in the case. Judges are reluctant to grant suppressions, but Chris was able to get it done! At that point, the government had no other option than to dismiss the case. Had it not been for Chris' ability to spot a fatal flaw in the government's case, his client may have been wrongfully convicted. I have no doubt Chris will work hard on your case to expose the government just as he did in our case.
    - Armen Merjanian
    "Highly recommend Chris Hesse for your next criminal attorney!"
    I received a ticket for a traffic mishap you see i have a CDL and the city of Amarillo, TX. which does not dismiss them. he worked endlessly and countless hours to help me get the ticket off my record which he did. With little help from me I highly recommend Chris Hesse for your next criminal attorney!!
    - John Brooks
    "Excellent Lawyer"
    After being pulled over unfairly and being charge with possession. Chris Hesse helped me and got my charge dismissed. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing an attorney. He is both experienced and willing to fight to get the best outcome for you.
    - Daegen
    "Not only did he fight for me, he showed he cared."
    Not only did he fight for me, but he showed he cared when everyone else seemed to just want to throw the book at me. He got my assault charge and disorderly conduct charges dismissed!!
    - Trent