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What is a certificate of appealability?
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.
5 days ago


How long do I have to appeal?
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.
Jul 4


U.S. Supreme Court News | A "miscarriage of justice" exception now applies to appeal waivers.
The US Supreme Court ruled that a "miscarriage of justice" can now be applied to appeal waivers.
Jun 23


U.S. Supreme Court News | Federal Habeas Corpus Relief for Death Row Inmate
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.
Jun 5




U.S. Supreme Court News | Race Discrimination & Compassionate Release
Racial issues and compassionate release are the topics of this week's U.S. Supreme Court opinions.
Jun 1


What does “per curiam” mean?
What does "per curiam" and "per curiam affirmed" actually mean for an appeal?
May 19


Small Victories are Still Significant: Latest Decision on Felony Murder Case - Alabama v. Antonio Deandre Hawkins
The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals released a new decision in the felony murder case of Antonio Hawkins.
May 5


How does sentencing work in Alabama?
Understanding the guidelines and sentencing requirements in the state of Alabama.
May 1


U.S. Supreme Court News | District of Columbia v. R.W.
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.
Apr 17


My Rule 32 was denied without a hearing! What do I do now?
If your Rule 32 petition was denied without a hearing, don't worry. Here's what you need to know.
Apr 2


Murder conviction reversal leads to new trial in the case of Alabama v. Jammie LaJoyce Hughes
AL Court of Criminal Appeals recently reversed the murder conviction of Jammie LaJoyce Hughes for a new trial.
Mar 26


What is federal habeas corpus for state prisoners in Alabama? What are the time limits?
What does federal habeas corpus mean for Alabama state prisoners, and what are the timelines?
Mar 23


Why is the time limit for filing a Rule 32 petition so short?
Why is it so hard to make the time limit for filing a Rule 32 Petition?
Mar 14


“My lawyer didn’t call my witnesses at trial. Is there anything I can do?”
What to do if your attorney did not call a specific witness at trial, and does it qualify as ineffective assistance of counsel?
Mar 6


“I took a plea. Can I appeal? Can I file for ineffective assistance of counsel?”
Can you file for ineffective assistance of counsel if you took a plea?
Mar 2


I just lost my appeal! Can I appeal to the Supreme Court?
Can you appeal to the Supreme Court if your initial appeal was denied?
Feb 28


“I need an appeal!” But what kind of appeal?
How to understand the appeals process if you or your loved one has been convicted.
Feb 24


What is equitable tolling?
What is equitable tolling and how does is affect federal habeas corpus?
Feb 17


What is Hobbs Act robbery?
Understanding Hobbs Act robbery, and what to do if your loved one is convicted for this offense.
Feb 10
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