Criminal Appeals
Losing your freedom, record, or future does not always end with a conviction or sentence.
Ivy Law provides strategic representation for individuals pursuing Criminal Appeals across Alberta and British Columbia. Appeals focus on reviewing legal, procedural, or evidentiary errors that may have affected the outcome of a trial, verdict, or sentence, and they require disciplined analysis rather than re-litigation of facts.
Our defence lawyers represent clients throughout Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer, Vancouver, Surrey, and Abbotsford, providing focused appellate advocacy when convictions, sentences, or legal rulings must be challenged.
Get the legal guidance you need. Contact Ivy Law for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case, understand your options, and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
Key Takeaways
- Criminal Appeals are reviews of legal or procedural errors, not new trials
- Strict filing deadlines apply, and delay can eliminate appeal rights
- Appeals may challenge convictions, sentences, or specific legal rulings
- Appellate courts focus on errors of law and fairness, not credibility
- Successful appeals may result in a new trial, acquittal, or varied sentence
Criminal Defence Representation
Appeals require a different approach than trial defence. They involve detailed review of transcripts, exhibits, and judicial reasons, followed by precise written and oral argument. Early assessment is critical, as appellate courts expect focused grounds, clear legal errors, and strict compliance with procedural rules.
Understanding Criminal Appeals
Criminal appeals are governed by Part XXI of the Criminal Code, including s.673 Criminal Code, which sets out appeal rights and procedures. Appeals do not re-weigh evidence or reassess credibility unless a legal error affected how evidence was admitted or evaluated.
Depending on the case, appeals may arise from proceedings in Provincial Court or the Court of King’s Bench and may involve convictions, acquittals, or sentencing decisions. The focus is whether the law was applied correctly and whether the process was fair.
How We Help
- Conduct full review of transcripts, exhibits, and trial rulings
- Identify appealable errors of law or procedural unfairness
- Advise on timelines, risks, and likelihood of success
- Prepare written appeal factums and legal submissions
- Advocate before appellate courts with focused oral argument
The Defence Process
- Initial assessment of conviction, sentence, or ruling
- Strategic identification of viable grounds of appeal
- Preparation of written appellate materials
- Oral argument and pursuit of appellate relief
Common Charges & Scenarios
- Appeals from conviction under s.675 Criminal Code
- Appeals from sentence under s.675 Criminal Code
- Appeals from summary conviction matters under s.813 Criminal Code
- Appeals based on errors of law, Charter rulings, or misapplied procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to questions clients frequently ask before working with our firm.
Yes. Convictions may be appealed where there is an identified error of law, procedural unfairness, or another reviewable issue.
Yes. Criminal appeals are subject to strict filing deadlines. Missing them can result in losing the right to appeal.
Not always. Appellate courts may dismiss the appeal, order a new trial, enter an acquittal, or vary a sentence depending on the issue and the remedy sought.
Yes. Sentences may be appealed where they are alleged to be unfit or imposed in error.
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The Right Next Step Starts with a Conversation
You don't need to have every answer before speaking with a lawyer. Sometimes, you simply need someone to listen, explain your options, and help you understand what comes next.
At Ivy Law, we're here to help you navigate life's legal challenges with personalized guidance and a clear path forward.