Criminal Defense Lawyers

Getting a Second Opinion on a Federal Appeal

Why Get a Second Opinion?

There’s a few good reasons to get a second opinion on a federal appeal:

• Your trial lawyer might have missed something. They’re human after all.
• A fresh set of eyes could spot issues or arguments your trial lawyer didn’t think of.
• Appeals are a whole different ball game than trials. An experienced appeals lawyer knows the rules and strategies better.
• If two lawyers think you have a decent shot, you probably do.

Bottom line, a second opinion gives you more confidence in your appeal strategy. And confidence is so important heading into the appeals court. You don’t want to go in unsure or second-guessing yourself.

How to Get a Good Second Opinion

Not just any lawyer will do for a second opinion on a federal appeal. Here’s what to look for:

• Find a lawyer who specializes in federal criminal appeals, not just any appellate lawyer. The federal appeals process is unique.
• Look for someone with plenty of experience handling federal appeals – at least 5-10 years.
• Make sure they have argued before the federal Circuit Court you’re appealing to. Familiarity with the judges helps.
• Find someone you’re comfortable with. You’ll be working closely so trust your gut.

Also, be prepared to share the full record from your case – transcripts, motions, rulings, etc. The more info they have, the better the second opinion will be.

Questions to Ask

When meeting with lawyers for a second opinion, ask these key questions:

• What are the strongest issues and arguments you see for an appeal?
• Based on the trial record, do you think we have a decent shot on appeal?
• Which Circuit Court judges would we likely get and what are their tendencies?
• How many federal appeals have you handled and what were the results?
• What specific experience do you have with my type of case?

Their answers will help you evaluate whether they really know federal appeals and feel good about your chances.

Getting the Second Opinion

Once you choose a lawyer, they’ll dive into your case record and do a thorough review. This takes time – often weeks or more. They’re looking for:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Procedural issues at trial or with your conviction
• Legal errors by the judge
• Mistakes by your trial lawyer
• Important arguments your trial lawyer missed
• Any constitutional violations
• New evidence that could help
• Changes in the law since your trial

Basically, any potential issue or angle for an appeal. When finished, they’ll explain their findings and opinion about your chances. If they think you have a shot, they may offer to handle the appeal or help craft the legal arguments.

Appealing Pro Se

If you can’t afford a lawyer for the whole appeal, you can still get a second opinion and then file pro se. Paying just for the opinion lets you tap into their expertise. Then you can try crafting your own appeal brief using their input.

However, appeals have strict deadlines and complex rules. Handling the whole appeal pro se is really tough. But getting a second opinion gives you direction. Just be sure to learn the right procedures so your brief gets properly filed.

The Bottom Line

Appealing a federal conviction is daunting. But a second opinion from someone who really knows federal appeals can give you confidence. And you want to go into this fight feeling like you have a chance. Because you never know – the second opinion may uncover something that turns the whole case around.

So find the funds for a second opinion if at all possible. It’s worth investing to make sure you have the best shot on appeal. Don’t just rely on your trial lawyer. Get a fresh set of experienced eyes on your case. It could make all the difference.