CFE – Law — Question 15

Which of the following statements about the appeals process in criminal cases is MOST ACCURATE?

Answer options

• A. Appellate courts will usually reverse a conviction even if the trial court's error did not affect the outcome of the case.
• B. In civil law jurisdictions, appellate courts are generally not permitted to make their own legal conclusions when reviewing a case.
• C. Appellate courts will usually hear an appeal even if the petition was not filed in a timely manner.
• D. In common law jurisdictions, appellate courts are generally not permitted to make their own factual determinations when reviewing a case.

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because appellate courts focus on errors that may have affected the outcome of the trial, and if an error is found, they may reverse a conviction regardless of its impact. Options B and D incorrectly state the capabilities of appellate courts in civil and common law jurisdictions. Option C is incorrect as appellate courts often require timely filing to consider an appeal.