Experienced Criminal Appeals Attorney in Missouri

Strategic, Statewide Representation for Criminal Appeals
Not every trial ends in justice. When the system gets it wrong, the next step is appeal.

A criminal conviction doesn’t have to be the end of your case. If errors were made during your trial—whether by the judge, prosecutor, or even your defense attorney—you may have the right to appeal. An appeal isn’t a second trial. It’s a legal review focused on whether your rights were violated or the law was misapplied. To succeed, you need an attorney who understands how appellate courts think and how to build a persuasive, legally grounded argument.

At Ernst Law LLC, attorney Sarah Ernst represents clients across the state of Missouri in post-conviction and direct appeals. She has argued cases in every Missouri Court of Appeals district, a distinction that reflects not just her skill but also her growing reputation in the state’s appellate courts.

What Is a Criminal Appeal?

A criminal appeal is a formal request to a higher court to review and reverse a conviction or sentence due to legal mistakes made during the trial. Common appeal issues include:

  • Improperly admitted or excluded evidence

  • Incorrect jury instructions

  • Prosecutorial misconduct

  • Ineffective assistance of counsel

  • Sentencing errors

  • Violations of constitutional rights

Appeals are not about rearguing the facts—they focus on the legal procedures and rulings that shaped your trial. If something went wrong that affected the outcome, it may be grounds to overturn the conviction or order a new trial.

Why Choose Ernst Law for Your Appeal?

Appellate Experience Across Missouri

We have briefed and argued appeals in every district of the Missouri Court of Appeals, giving us an in-depth understanding of how different panels review criminal cases. This statewide experience sets us apart and allows our firm to navigate the nuances of each court's preferences and procedures.

A Fresh Perspective on Complex Cases

Appeals require a different skill set than trial work. Ernst Law LLC takes a careful, analytical approach—reading every line of the trial transcript, spotting legal errors others missed, and building written arguments that judges take seriously.

Collaboration with Trial Attorneys and Families

We frequently partner with trial counsel and pre-approved family members to assess the viability of an appeal. Whether you’ve just been convicted or are trying to help a loved one from the outside, Ernst Law will give you honest, informed guidance on what options are available.

When Should You File an Appeal?

In Missouri, the timeline to file a direct appeal is limited. Generally, you must file a Notice of Appeal within 10 days of sentencing. Missing this deadline can severely limit your legal options. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an appellate attorney as soon as possible after a conviction.

Statewide Criminal Appeal Representation

While Ernst Law LLC is based in Jefferson City, we accept criminal appeals throughout the state of Missouri. Our practice is focused, detail-driven, and rooted in a deep respect for the appellate process. If your case involved legal errors or unfair procedures, we are ready to fight for a second chance.