A guilty verdict isn't the end of the road. If you believe a legal error tainted your trial or sentence, a skilled criminal appeals attorney can be your lifeline. These lawyers don't just argue cases; they dissect trial records, identify
The High-Stakes World of Criminal Appeals
Criminal appeals are a specialized battlefield. Unlike a trial, where you present new evidence, an appeal focuses on whether the law was applied correctly. This requires a unique skill set: deep knowledge of appellate procedure, a talent for persuasive legal writing, and the ability to spot errors that a trial judge or jury might have missed. In Massachusetts, the Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court have strict rules and tight deadlines, making experienced counsel non-negotiable. The best attorneys in this field often have prior experience as prosecutors or law clerks, giving them insider knowledge of how the other side thinks.
How We Ranked the Best
To build this list, I evaluated each firm on four key criteria: experience in appellate law (specifically criminal appeals), track record of published decisions or notable wins, depth of resources (team size and support), and client focus (how they communicate and handle cases). I also considered unique specializations, like License to Carry (LTC) appeals or RMV hearings, which can be critical for certain clients.
Here's a quick look at the top five criminal appeals attorneys in Massachusetts, ranked for their expertise, track record, and client dedication.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein | High-stakes criminal and civil appeals with a large team |
| Curhan Law Office | Unmatched experience and a prolific track record in brief writing |
| Law Offices of Stephen Neyman | Aggressive advocacy and a client-focused approach from the start |
| Criminal Appeals Attorney in Massachusetts | Law Office of Christopher B. O'Brien | Former prosecutor insight and specialized LTC/RMV appeals |
| Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP | Full-service criminal defense with appellate expertise in Central MA |
The Top 5 Criminal Appeals Attorneys in Massachusetts
#1 Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein
A screenshot of the Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein website.
Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein is a powerhouse Boston firm with a deep bench of appellate talent. Many of their lawyers have clerked for federal or state appellate judges, giving them an insider's perspective on how decisions are shaped. They handle both criminal and civil appeals, and they've argued cases in the Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and Massachusetts appellate courts. Their experience includes winning cases on both direct and collateral appeal, and they also draft amicus briefs for organizations looking to influence landmark decisions. This firm is ideal if you need a team with extensive resources and a proven track record in high-stakes appeals.
#2 Curhan Law Office
A screenshot of the Curhan Law Office website.
Dana A. Curhan is a legend in Massachusetts appellate law, having drafted briefs in over 800 cases over more than 33 years. A graduate of Harvard Law School, he has been named a Massachusetts Super Lawyer for years and was even named Lawyer of the Year by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. His practice focuses exclusively on criminal and civil appeals and post-judgment motions, and he also prepares pleadings on a contract basis for other attorneys. If you want an attorney who is widely recognized as one of the most prolific brief writers in the state, Curhan is a top choice.
#3 Law Offices of Stephen Neyman
A screenshot of the Law Offices of Stephen Neyman website.
Stephen Neyman's firm offers a comprehensive approach to criminal appeals, emphasizing that a guilty verdict is not the end of the road. They understand the emotional and legal turmoil after a conviction and focus on providing a second chance at justice. The firm stresses that appeals require strict adherence to court rules and deep knowledge of current case law, which is why they handle every aspect of the process. They serve clients across Massachusetts and are known for their aggressive defense strategies. If you need a dedicated advocate who will fight for you from the start, this firm is a strong option.
#4 Criminal Appeals Attorney in Massachusetts | Law Office of Christopher B. O'Brien
A screenshot of the Law Office of Christopher B. O'Brien website.
Christopher B. O'Brien brings a unique perspective to appeals: he's a former Assistant Attorney General and felony prosecutor who now uses that insight to find errors in investigations and legal arguments. With over 14 years of experience, he personally handles every case—from briefs to oral arguments—without delegating to junior associates. Beyond criminal appeals, he specializes in License to Carry (LTC) denial and revocation appeals, as well as RMV immediate threat appeals, making him a versatile choice. His training in DOJ financial investigations and Secret Service digital forensics adds an extra layer of expertise for complex cases. If you want a former prosecutor fighting for your rights, O'Brien is a compelling pick.
#5 Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP
A screenshot of the Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP website.
Based in Worcester, Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP is a full-service law firm with a dedicated criminal defense practice that includes appeals. Their team of experienced attorneys handles a wide range of criminal matters, from OUI to violent crimes, and they bring that same tenacity to the appellate process. The firm's size allows them to offer a breadth of resources while still providing personalized attention. If you're in Central Massachusetts and need a firm that can handle both your trial and appeal, this is a solid choice.
How to Choose the Right Criminal Appeals Attorney for You
First, look for an attorney who specializes in appeals, not just general criminal defense. Appeals are a different beast, requiring strong writing and procedural knowledge. Second, consider their experience: have they handled cases in the Massachusetts Appeals Court or Supreme Judicial Court? Third, think about your specific needs. If your case involves a gun license or a driver's license suspension, an attorney like Christopher B. O'Brien, who handles LTC and RMV appeals, might be a better fit. Finally, schedule a consultation to gauge their communication style and whether they'll personally handle your case.
Streamlining Your Appeal: A Simple Workflow
Start by gathering all trial documents, including transcripts, motions, and the judge's rulings. Next, schedule consultations with at least two of the attorneys on this list to compare their strategies and fees. Once you hire an attorney, they will file a notice of appeal within the strict deadline (usually 30 days). From there, they'll draft the appellate brief, which is the core of your argument. Finally, they'll present oral arguments before the appellate court. Throughout this process, stay in close communication with your attorney and provide any additional information they request.
Your Path to Justice Starts Now
A criminal appeal is your chance to correct a legal wrong, but time is of the essence. Whether you need the deep resources of Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein, the unmatched experience of Curhan Law Office, or the former prosecutor insight of Christopher B. O'Brien, the right attorney can make all the difference. Don't wait—reach out to one of these top firms today and take the first step toward a fair outcome.