Motion For New Trial -California Penal Code 1181 PC
What is a Motion for New Trial?
A motion for new trial under California PC 1181 is a statutory legal remedy that allows you to request a re-examination of your criminal case following the issuance of a guilty verdict. In your motion for new trial, you must allege some sort of prosecutorial misconduct or legal error that has substantially interfered with your constitutional right to a fair and impartial trial.
In order to prevail on this motion, you must be able to show that the outcome of your case would have been more favorable had the error or misconduct not occurred. If successful, the judge will set aside the verdict and order a new trial allowing you a second opportunity to proclaim your innocence. A motion for a new trial can be an uphill battle, which is why you will need an experienced criminal attorney.
Grounds for Requesting a Motion for New Trial in California
California Penal Code section 1181 lists a number of legal grounds that can be the basis for your motion for new trial. These include:
- Jury misconduct
- Receiving outside evidence
- Improper evidence
- Improper verdict
- Error of law by the court
- Proceeding without the defendant’s presence
- Misdirecting the jury in a matter of law
- Insufficient evidence
- Prosecutorial misconduct
- Newly discovered evidence
- No record of the trial transcript
- Ineffective assistance of counsel
Prosecutorial Misconduct
As a representative of the People of California, the prosecution must abide by a heightened standard of professionalism and ethics in conducting criminal matters. A failure to abide by these standards can constitute prosecutorial misconduct and act as grounds for granting a new trial. Some examples of prosecutorial misconduct include:
- Commenting on inadmissible evidence or evidence that has not been offered on the record
If prosecutorial misconduct occurred, you may be eligible for a new trial. - Expressing personal opinions about your character or guilt
- Eliciting improper or prejudicial answers from witnesses
- Knowingly withholding or failing to reveal exculpatory evidence tending to prove your innocence
- Conducting an improper cross examination of you or other witnesses testifying on your behalf
Procedural Aspects in Filing a Motion for New Trial
If you want to make a motion asking the court to grant a new trial, you must do so in a timely fashion or your ability to assert that right will be considered waived. You must submit your motion for new trial after the guilty verdict has been entered, but before the sentencing hearing.
Under California Penal Code section 1191, the judge must rule on your motion for new trial within 20 days after the guilty verdict has been issued or 30 days if you need more time to gather evidence in support of your claim.
Call Wallin & Klarich Today
If you have been convicted of a crime and now face possible incarceration, it is essential that you contact an experienced defense lawyer who is familiar with such cases. With offices in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Victorville and West Covina, Wallin & Klarich has successfully represented our clients for over 40 years by ensuring that they get a fair and impartial trial.
If you believe that your criminal matter has been unfairly impacted by misconduct or legal error, contact us as soon as possible. We have the knowledge and the know-how to win your case.
Call us today at (877) 466-5245 or fill out our confidential client information form for a free phone consultation. We will be there when you call.
