Appeals
We pride ourselves on having depth of experience as jury advocates and the skill set to present focussed, carefully calibrated and compelling arguments to the appellate courts.
With decades of experience, Goodwin Law recognises the dire consequences that a wrongful conviction or severe sentence can have on a client and their whanau’s lives. We have achieved many successes in overturning adverse outcomes in the lower courts.
Appeals against conviction require a careful assessment of the trial file to evaluate where mistakes have been made and their impact. Frequently, we are asked to review the previous decision making of other trial counsel in preparing for and presenting a client’s defence for serious offences. Such a review enables a client to scope out whether there is merit in proceeding to appeal.
For an appeal against sentence to succeed, we have to demonstrate the sentence was manifestly (clearly) excessive. Normally, this involves a careful calculation of the weight given to the various factors affecting sentence or obtaining expert reports which have not been obtained by previous counsel.
We are known to be thorough in our preparation and committed to presenting arguments which have the best chance of success.
If key witnesses or experts were not interviewed or called at trial, we prepare affidavits for them and apply for fresh evidence to be called on appeal.