Appeals Attorney in Jacksonville
Experienced Local Guidance When You Need It Most
If you want to challenge a criminal conviction in Jacksonville, you need a criminal appeals attorney who knows the local courts and can handle every detail. At Law Office of Russell B. McCormick, PA, we use direct courtroom experience to guide clients through every stage of the appellate process.
Our office stands close to Jacksonville’s courthouse and jail, so we can meet in person quickly or respond fast to urgent needs. Whether you believe a conviction included errors or want to defend your rights against unfair outcomes, our team focuses on helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Handling an appeal calls for more than simply reviewing facts—it requires deep familiarity with legal arguments and the trial record. As an appeals lawyer in Jacksonville, we keep communication open, explain next steps clearly, and use our knowledge of the local process to your advantage. Throughout your appeal, you receive the insight and access you need, every step of the way.
For immediate legal counsel on whether your conviction can be overturned, call (904) 353-0436 or fill out this online form. Our firm is ready to fight for your freedom on appeal. We are former prosecutors, we offer bilingual services, free consultations and 24/7 availability.
Understanding the Two Paths to Reversing a Conviction in Florida
In Florida, challenging a criminal conviction or sentence involves two distinct legal avenues, each requiring specialized knowledge from a Jacksonville appeals lawyer.
1. Direct Appeal (Rule 9.140)
A direct appeal challenges legal errors that are visible within the trial court record. The deadline for filing a Notice of Appeal is critically short—typically 30 days from the rendition of the final judgment and sentence.
This appeal is filed with the District Court of Appeal and raises issues such as:
- Improper Admission or Exclusion of Evidence: The judge allowed evidence that should have been suppressed (e.g., illegally obtained evidence) or barred evidence crucial to the defense.
- Prosecutorial Misconduct: The prosecutor made improper arguments during closing statements, withheld favorable evidence (Brady Violation), or engaged in other actions that prejudiced the jury.
- Incorrect Jury Instructions: The judge failed to properly instruct the jury on the law or provided instructions that misstated the elements of the crime or a valid defense (e.g., self-defense).
- Unlawful Sentencing: The sentence imposed exceeded the statutory maximum or misapplied the Florida Sentencing Guidelines.
2. Post-Conviction Relief (Rule 3.850 & 3.800)
Motions for post-conviction relief address constitutional violations that are not apparent in the trial record, most commonly filed after the direct appeal process is complete.
- Rule 3.850 (Ineffective Assistance of Counsel): This is the most common post-conviction motion, alleging that the trial attorney's performance fell below a reasonable standard and that this deficient performance prejudiced the outcome of the case. This must generally be filed within two years of the conviction becoming final.
- Rule 3.800 (Illegal Sentence): Challenges a sentence that is inherently illegal (e.g., a sentence that exceeds the statutory maximum) and can often be filed at any time.
- Newly Discovered Evidence: Motions based on the discovery of new, material evidence that could not have been known or discovered before or during trial.
A top appeals attorney in Jacksonville understands that both direct appeal and post-conviction relief are technical challenges that demand forensic attention to detail.
Five-Star Reviews See What our Clients Have to Say
Russell B. McCormick Focuses on You, and It Shows in Our Reviews
Read through some of our recent five-star client testimonials below, or call (904) 353-0436 get started with our attorney today.
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"Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me."A friend who went through a similar situation recommended me this Law Office. I was a bit nervous about talking to a lawyer since it was my first time having to need one. Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me. He was also quite accommodating with my work schedule and kept me up to date with anything that came up or that I needed to do. I’m so grateful he was able to reduce my charge, with the eligibility of getting it sealed later on.- Kevin
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"Russell is Amazing!"Russell is Amazing! He handled my son’s case with such professionalism all while having a very calm demeanor. His hard work granted the best results for my son, and we are more than pleased. And I can’t leave out Dorothy! It was a pleasure speaking with her when calling the office Every Time.She was always sweet and made sure to answer any concerns that we had.. Overall I give Russell and his team a A+.. I highly recommend..- Meka B.
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"They were knowledgeable and straight to the point"This firm was well worth it , they were knowledgeable and straight to the point and actually got the job done . Also they respond back to you in a timely manner . I am very appreciative for their service. Now I can move forward in life . Thanks- Deven R.
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"Highly recommend Russell McCormick."Highly recommend Russell McCormick. Upon calling he immediately went to work on my case. He clearly communicated the process and walked me through any questions I had. He was also able to get my sentencing talked down and made the process as painless as it could be. I am so glad he was referred to me!- Rachel B.
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"Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations."Russell was great! this is the second time I have used him and i have to say, I'm impressed. Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations. I would recommend Russell McCormick to anyone needing legal counsel. After finding Russell, I will never use anyone else for my legal needs!- Luke F.
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Called the McCormick office in trouble, with my freedom on the line. Russell answered the phone himself and confirmed he took on my type of cases. He took my information down and we scheduled a consultation. When I arrived for my consultation, he already had the information about my case,and a plan to come to my defense, already in tow! That made me confident in hiring Russell. However, my case had gotten thrown out (unbeknownst to me) and even though I paid the retainers fee, he sent me a refund.In reality he could have kept it. That right there is why he'll forever be my go to attorney if I needed one. Ready to defend and honest when need be. I appreciate him and Ms Dorothy and highly recommend. Thanks again!- Jones
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"Worth Every Penny!"I cannot say thank you enough to Mr. McCormick and his team. Everyone was amazingly nice and professional and I always got a response in a timely manner. He was worth every penny so I didn’t have to face the court alone.- Amber H.
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"Much Love and Respect for This Man"
Russell is by far the best defense attorney in Jax. He did an amazing job with my case. Has the respect of the state's attorneys and the judges as well, which if you know how the law works is important for your defense.
- Eric G.
Why Work With a Jacksonville Criminal Appeals Lawyer
Attorney McCormick brings unique insight as a former prosecutor, giving our clients a distinct advantage during the appeal process. As a criminal appeals lawyer in Jacksonville, he anticipates prosecution strategies and develops an appeal that draws on both sides of the courtroom.
Clients benefit from his direct involvement throughout the process. We stay accessible 24/7, offer off-site appointments, and provide flexible payment plans so your legal work fits your needs and schedule.
- Direct Access: You work with Attorney McCormick personally, not just with staff members.
- Former Prosecutor Perspective: We know the prosecution’s approach and build smarter criminal appeals.
- Convenience & Accessibility: Meet at our downtown office, evenings, weekends, or in other locations according to your comfort.
- Full Representation: We handle everything from pre-charge matters to post-conviction representation and appeals—all at a single firm.
- Transparent Support: Free consultations and flexible payment plans help you get started when you need help most.
We know the stress that comes with appealing a case in Jacksonville. By listening to your concerns and communicating at each step, we provide professional guidance and real answers. We want every client to feel informed, prepared, and confident in our comprehensive approach to criminal defense matters.
Get Answers from a Jacksonville Appeals Lawyer Today
If you believe your criminal trial included mistakes or you want trusted legal guidance for an appeal, contact Law Office of Russell B. McCormick, PA for a free consultation. You receive a prompt response from a criminal appeals attorney in Jacksonville, with guidance tailored to your case.
We make ourselves available 24/7, offer flexible meeting options, and ensure each client speaks directly with Attorney McCormick.
Call (904) 353-0436 or reach out online today to take the next step. Our team combines experience, convenience, and a personalized approach—giving you the dedicated support you need during your appeal.
