Houston Criminal Appeals Lawyer

State and Federal Criminal Appeals Attorney

Call (832) 720-7255 to Talk to Houston Appellate Attorneys.

Based in Houston, the Hochglaube & DeBorde Law Firm handles criminal appeals, writs of habeas corpus, and motions for a new trial throughout the Fifth Circuit, the Southern District of Texas, the Courts of Appeals, and the Court of Criminal Appeals for the State of Texas.

Federal criminal appeal lawyer Nicole DeBorde has nearly 20 years of legal experience, which includes more than eight years as a prosecutor at the district attorney’s office. Criminal defense attorney Ms. DeBorde has handled hundreds of these trials, countless motions, and has experience with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and has appeared before various Courts of Appeals. She has successfully argued before the highest criminal court in the state of Texas, the Court of Criminal Appeals.

For someone searching for an appeals attorney Houston residents trust, it can be reassuring to know that we regularly practice in local courts such as the Harris County Criminal Courts, the 1st and 14th Courts of Appeals in downtown Houston, and the federal courthouse serving the Southern District of Texas. We understand the procedures, timelines, and preferences of these courts, and we take the time to explain how your case will move through them so you know what to expect at each stage.

Ms. DeBorde’s reputation for preparation and dedication has earned her praise from the legal community, as well as national prominence as a legal analyst for:

• Fox News
• CNN
• MSNBC (including the O’Reilly Factor)

Ms. DeBorde has also been named one of Houston’s top lawyers by several distinguished magazines, including H Magazine. For additional information about our law firm or the benefits of retaining our legal services, please visit our firm overview page.

Experienced Texas and Fifth Circuit Criminal Appeals Lawyer in Houston

Our firm has substantial experience in state and federal appellate courts handling these appeals. A appellate law attorney can provide clear guidance and representation to help navigate the complexities of the appellate process.

When you work with an appeals lawyer on our team, we start by reviewing the entire trial record, including motions, objections, and the court’s rulings, to identify legal issues that may support an appeal. We then discuss realistic options with you and your family, such as direct appeal, writ practice, or pursuing a motion for new trial, so you can make informed choices about how to move forward after a conviction or harsh sentence.

Our appellate practice includes the following:

• Reviewing your court record
• Filing state or federal appeals
• Preparing briefs, writs, and petitions
• Arguing before the Fifth Circuit, state appellate court, or the US or the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals
• Motion for a new trial
• State and federal writs
• Petitions for discretionary review

An experienced appeals attorney can also help you understand important deadlines, such as how long you have to file a notice of appeal or seek post-conviction relief after a judgment in a Harris County district court. We coordinate with trial counsel when possible, review plea paperwork and sentencing transcripts, and tailor our strategy to the specific court that will hear your case, whether that is a Houston-area court of appeals or the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans.

Understanding the Criminal Appeals Process in Houston

Many people contact our firm after a conviction in Harris County or federal court and are unsure of what an appeal actually involves. In general, an appeal is not a new trial with new evidence but a legal review of what happened in the trial court, usually focused on whether the judge made errors that affected the outcome. As a criminal appeals lawyer in Houston, we help clients understand that strict deadlines apply, written briefs are the primary way arguments are presented, and oral argument may or may not be granted depending on the court. Knowing these basics can help you decide quickly whether to pursue an appeal and how to preserve your rights while deadlines are approaching.

The process often begins with filing a notice of appeal in the trial court that entered the judgment, such as a Harris County district court or a federal district court in the Southern District of Texas. After the clerk’s and reporter’s records are prepared, we analyze the transcripts, exhibits, and prior motions to identify issues like improper jury instructions, evidentiary rulings, or potential constitutional concerns. We then prepare a written brief, respond to the State or federal government’s arguments, and keep you informed about any hearings or decisions from the appellate court. Throughout this process, we answer questions from you and your family about possible timelines, next steps if the appeal is denied, and whether other remedies like writs of habeas corpus might be available in the future.

Get Free Legal Consultation for Criminal Appeals Cases

We are also available to act as your “appellate counsel” during your criminal trial to help you preserve your record during your trial. If you would like us to review your criminal trial record, or discuss the appeals process with an experienced Houston, TX appellate attorney, please contact us online or call (832) 720-7255 to schedule a free consultation. We are also available to assist other defense attorneys with their clients’ appeal.

During your free consultation, a Houston appeals lawyer from our firm will listen to your concerns, review key documents such as the judgment and sentence, and outline potential next steps without pressure or judgment. Many of our clients are incarcerated in facilities in and around Houston or elsewhere in Texas, and we routinely communicate with families who are trying to get help for a loved one who has been convicted in a Harris County or federal court.

Se Habla Español – Located in the Niels Esperson Building – For a Free Initial Consultation and Evaluation Please Call Us at (832) 720-7255.