In an exciting first for the firm, attorneys Liv Warren and Kellie Mannette appeared before the Supreme Court of North Carolina for two back-to-back arguments last week.

Liv argued that her client’s constitutional right to a properly constituted jury was violated when more than twelve people were present during the jury’s deliberations, requiring reversal of the conviction. Kellie argued that children who have been found capable of rehabilitation should not receive sentences that amount to de facto life without parole.

Both cases present significant questions of constitutional law and the protections afforded to people accused and convicted of crimes in North Carolina. They also reflect the importance of careful appellate review when constitutional rights may have been compromised at trial or sentencing.

Criminal appeals in North Carolina require a distinct form of advocacy. Appellate attorneys must master the trial record, identify and develop complex legal issues, and present those arguments with precision while responding to rigorous questions from the appellate court. At Thomas, Ferguson & Beskind, our criminal appellate lawyers handle appeals in North Carolina state and federal courts, including cases involving constitutional violations, improper jury procedures, wrongful convictions, and unlawful or excessive sentences.

Appearing before the Supreme Court of North Carolina is a rare responsibility, and we are proud to see Liv and Kellie continue our firm’s tradition of thoughtful, effective appellate advocacy. If you or a loved one is pursuing a criminal appeal in North Carolina, our attorneys are prepared to bring careful analysis, thorough preparation, and experienced advocacy to the case.