What happens after a trial?

A defendant who is found guilty in a federal criminal trial has a right to appeal their case to the U.S. court of appeals. The grounds for appeal usually allege that the district judge made an error either in interpreting the law or in procedure, for example by admitting improper evidence.

The losing party may not appeal if there was no trial - that is, if the defendant decided to plead guilty. However, a defendant who pleads guilty may have the right to appeal his or her sentence. The prosecution may also sometimes appeal a sentence.

The prosecuting authorities may not appeal if a defendant in a criminal case is found to be innocent. The double jeopardy clause in the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution provides that no person shall "be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb" for the same offense.