Timelines for Appeals

Following a conviction, the time to file an appeal in a criminal case is as follow:

Federal cases:

Within 14 days after the judgment of commitment is filed (this usually happens within a day or two after sentencing) Rule 4(b)(1)(A), Fed.R.App.P.

Minnesota cases:

In Minnesota if a defendant has no money to pay for a direct appeal but someone else is willing to pay for a lawyer, the transcript can be obtained from the public defender's officer at no charge. Rule 28.02, subd. 5(7), Minn.R.Crim.P., Pederson v. State, 600 N.W.2d 451 (Minn. 1999).

Within 90 days from the date of sentencing for felonies and gross misdemeanors. Rules 28.02, subd. 4(3)(a), and 29.03, subd 3(a), Minn.R.Crim.P.

Within 10 days from the date of sentencing for misdemeanors. Rule 28.02, subd. 4(3)(b), Minn.R.Crim.P.

Within 60 days of a denial of a postconviction relief. (Rules 28.02, subd. 4(3)(c) and 29.03, subd. 3(d))

Wisconsin cases:

Within 20 days after sentencing a Notice of Intent to Pursue Postconviction Relief must be filed with the circuit court. The right to seek postconviction relief applies to both direct appeals and collateral postconviction claims. Wisc. Stat. §§ 809.30(2); 974.06.