Elizabeth A. McClintock
Colorado's Expert In Overturning Criminal Convictions
Navigating the complex world of appeals can be daunting, but finding the best appellate attorney Colorado Springs doesn’t have to be. With the expert knowledge and guidance from McClintock Law Firm, LLC, you can secure the legal representation you need to challenge an unfavorable decision and pursue justice.
With over 20 years of experience as a Colorado trial attorney and appeals lawyer defending high-profile cases across the state, Ms. McClintock represents your best chance of reversing your criminal conviction on appeal.
2,000+
Criminal Charges Handled
450+
Criminal Appeals Argued
How May We Help You?
The Role Of An Appellate Attorney
An appellate attorney is responsible for challenging unfavorable decisions and representing clients in federal and state appellate courts, requiring specialized skills and expertise.
Appeals lawyers must possess specialized skills and knowledge to successfully contest unfavorable decisions and advocate for their clients in federal and state appellate courts. Proficiency in writing compelling legal briefs is essential for success in motions, settlements, and cases within the Colorado Court of Appeals system.
The ability to anticipate potential issues gives attorneys a solid strategic foundation from the outset, which can be crucial when presenting a case before an appellate judge.
Engaging a local appellate attorney is significant due to their familiarity with the local court system and judges and possibly existing relationships with court personnel. This will give you an edge in presenting your case before the judge and ensuring a fair trial.
Our local Colorado Springs appellate attorney can provide the advantage you need when presenting your case due to our familiarity with the local court system and judges and established relationships with court personnel.
We have a thorough understanding of the local rules and procedures, which allow us to better prepare for your CO appeals case. For this reason, contact McClintock Law Firm, LLC, for a free consultation without delay.
GET EXPERT HELP
Schedule a complimentary consultation with a highly specialized law office focusing exclusively on appellate court and criminal defense against high-level felony charges in Colorado.

Reviews From Our Clients
R.H.
J.K.
D.M.
As seen on:




Colorado Supreme Court Appellate System
The Colorado appellate court system comprises state and federal appellate courts that handle appeals cases in Colorado. It’s essential to adhere to the deadline for filing an appeal, as even a single day’s delay may result in the dismissal of the appeal.
The Colorado appellate court system includes the Colorado Court of Appeals, which serves as the state’s intermediate appellate court, and the Colorado Supreme Court, the state’s highest court. In addition to state courts, federal appellate courts, such as the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, handle cases involving federal law and constitutional issues.
Colorado State Appellate Court
Colorado State Appellate Courts consist of the Colorado Court of Appeals and the Colorado Supreme Court. The Colorado Court of Appeals is the first court of appeals for decisions from the district courts, Denver Probate Court, and Denver Juvenile Court. The Court of Appeals has appellate jurisdiction primarily over final judgments of district courts acting as trial courts and approximately 33 kinds of cases.
The Colorado Supreme Court is the highest in Colorado, having the authority to review decisions from the Colorado Court of Appeals and district courts. Both courts play a crucial role in reviewing lower court decisions for errors and potential injustices, ensuring the proper application of the law and the protection of individual rights.
Federal Appellate Courts in Colorado
Federal Appellate Courts in Colorado, such as the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, handle cases involving federal law and constitutional issues.
The United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, a federal court, is the only federal appellate court present in Colorado, with jurisdiction over appeals from the federal district courts in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma.
Appealing to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals begins with filing a notice of appeal in the district court. Subsequently, the appellant must submit a brief to the court of appeals. The appellant is then allowed to file a brief in response. After filing the briefs, the Court of Appeals may hear oral arguments from the parties. The court of appeals then renders a decision, which may be appealed to the United States Supreme Court.
Factors When Choosing an Appellate Lawyer
When selecting an appellate attorney, evaluating their expertise, experience, success rate, familiarity with appellate court rules, and issue selection is essential. An attorney’s qualifications, understanding of the law, and ability to effectively articulate a case are crucial factors to consider when choosing an appellate attorney. Evaluating an attorney’s success rate in similar cases can provide a valuable indication of their proficiency in handling your case.
It’s also important to evaluate an attorney’s knowledge of the appellate court’s rules and their ability to identify the critical issues in a case. These factors contribute to a comprehensive and effective representation in the appeals process, giving clients the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
Experience and Expertise
Experience and expertise in appellate law are crucial for effective representation in the appeals process. This ensures a thorough understanding of legal issues and the ability to navigate the complex appeals world. Appellate attorneys must possess specialized knowledge and experience in appellate law, such as legal research, writing, and oral advocacy, as trial and appellate courts have distinct roles and responsibilities.
When selecting an appellate attorney, consider their specialized knowledge in appellate law and their experience handling similar cases. This will help ensure that an appellate lawyer addresses your case effectively and efficiently, increasing the likelihood of a successful appeal.
Legal Writing and Analytical Skills
Strong legal writing and analytical skills are essential for appellate attorneys, as the appeals process relies heavily on written arguments and the ability to anticipate potential issues. Appellate practice necessitates crafting written arguments that anticipate potential issues, analyze complex legal issues, and cite relevant case law persuasively and coherently.
Legal research, persuasive writing, analytical thinking, and organizational abilities are examples of legal writing and analytical skills crucial for success in appellate law. Evaluating an attorney’s legal writing and analytical skills can provide insight into their ability to effectively represent your case in the appeals process.
Communication and Responsiveness
Communication and responsiveness are essential qualities in an appellate attorney, as clients must be kept informed and involved throughout the appeals process. Effective communication and responsiveness ensure that clients are informed and engaged throughout the appeals process, allowing them to stay informed about their cases and make informed decisions.
When evaluating an attorney’s communication and responsiveness, it’s advisable to inquire about their communication style and how they handle client inquiries. Furthermore, obtaining references from past clients can provide insight into the attorney’s communication and responsiveness towards their clients.
This will help ensure a smooth and successful working relationship with your appellate attorney.
Criminal Appeals in Colorado Springs
Criminal appeals in Colorado Springs are a cornerstone of our appellate law firm. Grounds for criminal appeals may include:
- The prosecution collected unreliable evidence.
- Evidentiary issues during trial.
- A plain error committed by the trial court.
- Ineffective assistance of counsel.
Additionally, defendants may raise specific claims in the trial court even after they have exhausted all their direct appeal rights. A criminal defense appellate attorney can provide legal advice and representation in appeals, filing briefs, and court arguments.
Grounds for Criminal Appeals
Grounds for criminal appeals include procedural or legal mistakes made during the original trial, which can lead to a new trial or an overturned conviction. In Colorado Springs, grounds for criminal appeals may include unreliable evidence presented by the prosecution, procedural errors during the trial, and errors in the judge’s interpretation of the law.
It’s crucial to understand the grounds for appealing a criminal conviction, as this knowledge can inform your decision to pursue an appeal and assist you in selecting the right appellate attorney for your case. An experienced criminal defense appellate attorney can help you navigate the complex appeals process, review the original trial for errors, and advocate for a favorable outcome.
How a Criminal Defense Appellate Attorney Can Help
A criminal defense appeals attorney, also known as an appellate attorney, can help clients navigate the complex appeals process, review the original trial for errors, and advocate for a favorable outcome. They provide comprehensive legal representation and guidance for clients who wish to appeal their criminal conviction or sentence, manage post-conviction motions, and offer legal advice throughout the appeals process.
Hiring a skilled criminal defense appellate attorney is essential for ensuring your case is presented effectively and persuasively in the appeals process. By working with an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of the criminal appeals process, you can increase your chances of achieving a successful outcome in your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Appellate attorneys provide a vital role for clients seeking legal representation on appellate matters by reviewing the decision and utilizing specialized experience to represent their clients’ legal needs in state and federal appeals courts.
They are experienced in researching and analyzing legal issues, drafting legal briefs, and arguing cases before appellate courts. They are also knowledgeable in the rules and procedures of appellate courts, which can be complex and require specialized knowledge. Appellate attorneys are also highly skilled in legal writing.
By hiring a local appellate attorney, one can benefit from their knowledge of local laws and familiarity with the local court system. This makes it easier for them to provide experienced and competent representation in appeals proceedings, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
When selecting an appellate attorney, it is essential to research their qualifications, reputation, references, level of expertise, and cost. Additionally, assess their communication, responsiveness, and ability to communicate complex legal issues straightforwardly.
It is essential to find an attorney who is experienced in appellate law and has a successful track record. Ask for references and read reviews to understand their past performance. Additionally, make sure to ask for additional information.
Appealing a criminal conviction can be based on evidence that is newly discovered or was not admitted at the initial trial or if the original court ruling was incorrect due to legal issues.
A criminal conviction can be appealed for various reasons, such as ineffective counsel, prosecutorial misconduct, or newly discovered evidence that might prove innocence. Thus, it is essential to consider all available options when appealing a criminal conviction.
A criminal defense appellate attorney can help you build a solid argument to overturn your conviction and ensure your rights are preserved adequately throughout the trial. With their experience and skill, they can effectively advocate for a favorable outcome for your case.
Proudly Serving Southern Colorado
McClintock Law Firm, LLC is proud to serve the greater Front Range area, including the cities and towns in El Paso, Teller, Pueblo, Fremont & Lincoln Counties.
- Colorado Springs
- USAF Academy
- Monument
- Woodland Park
- Cripple Creek
- Victor
- Castle Rock
- Lone Tree
- Parker
- Highlands Ranch
- Pueblo
- Pueblo West
- Colorado City
- Canon City
- Florence
- Penrose
- Hugo
- Limon
- Arriba
- Fort Carson