Appellate Division

The Appellate Division of the Northampton County District Attorney’s Office is responsible for managing all criminal appeals on behalf of the Commonwealth. This includes legal challenges that arise before trial, after sentencing, and in cases involving the constitutionality of state laws.

What We Do

Attorneys in the Appellate Division:

  • Respond to appeals filed by defendants in both trial and post-conviction stages

  • Defend the rulings and procedures of the trial court

  • Draft and file legal briefs with state appellate courts

  • Argue cases before the Pennsylvania Superior Court and, when applicable, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

These cases often involve complex legal questions, procedural issues, and constitutional claims that require in-depth research, persuasive legal writing, and oral advocacy.

Types of Appeals Handled

The division oversees:

  • Pre-trial appeals, such as suppression rulings or jurisdictional disputes

  • Post-sentence appeals, including challenges to convictions or sentencing decisions

  • Constitutional challenges, particularly those questioning the validity of statutes or legal procedures

Commitment to Justice

The Appellate Division plays a critical role in upholding lawful convictions and ensuring that justice is maintained through all levels of review. By defending the decisions made in Northampton County’s trial courts, the division works to ensure that criminal prosecutions remain fair, consistent, and legally sound.