Before making an appeal, some federal and state prisoners must obtain a certificate of appealability. In this article, we explain what a COA is and the steps to obtain it.

Once a person is convicted and sentenced, there is still an option to appeal. This article explains the process and varying time frames depending on where you were sentenced.

The US Supreme Court ruled that a "miscarriage of justice" can now be applied to appeal waivers.

Early June 2026 updates from the U.S. Supreme Court include a reversal in the denial of federal habeas corpus for a Florida state inmate.

What claims can be made for a direct appeal?

Racial issues and compassionate release are the topics of this week's U.S. Supreme Court opinions.

What does "per curiam" and "per curiam affirmed" actually mean for an appeal?

Understanding the guidelines and sentencing requirements in the state of Alabama.

Read the latest Supreme Court opinion in the case of District of Columbia v. R.W.,608 U.S. which highlights why 4th Amendment and unreasonable search issues can be complicated.

If your Rule 32 petition was denied without a hearing, don't worry. Here's what you need to know.

What does federal habeas corpus mean for Alabama state prisoners, and what are the timelines?

Why is it so hard to make the time limit for filing a Rule 32 Petition?

What to do if your attorney did not call a specific witness at trial, and does it qualify as ineffective assistance of counsel?

Can you file for ineffective assistance of counsel if you took a plea?

Can you appeal to the Supreme Court if your initial appeal was denied?

How to understand the appeals process if you or your loved one has been convicted.

What is equitable tolling and how does is affect federal habeas corpus?

Understanding Hobbs Act robbery, and what to do if your loved one is convicted for this offense.

What are federal sentencing guidelines and does an error in sentencing help in an appeal?

One of the many concepts to understand is the idea of published and unpublished opinions. Let us explain what that means, and what it means when the court denies the appeal without an opinion.