There are one form and a motion for appeal we request you use after losing a capital case. This is meant to be as simple as possible. These are in Word Perfect 6.1/7/8/9/10/11/12/X3/X4 format and also in MS Word format. You can call them up and fill in the information. Or you can complete a blank form by typing or legibly writing, then submit it by mail.
There is a report of a new capital appeal. While this is one legal page in length, you are encouraged to add additional information as may be helpful either on this form or in a memo or detailed letter. Although it asks for the date of the motion for appeal, we would prefer this form be sent as soon as the verdict is rendered, with that information being sent later.
As to the report form, please e-mail this information to saraho@thejusticecenter.org or mail a completed form to: Sarah Ottinger, Capital Appellate Project, 636 Baronne Street - Floor 3, New Orleans, LA 70113-1004. For questions, contact Sarah Ottinger via the above email address or via telephone at (504) 558-9867.There is a sample motion for appeal. While there is no absolute perfect form, this will provide assistance in meeting the requirements. NOTE: While the appeal will be handled by The Capital Appeals Project, the law does not permit the direct appointment of the Project. Other information and the report form can be sent to the address above, but the motion for appeal must appoint the Louisiana Public Defender Board. While the trial court should send a copy to the LPDB, it would be helpful for you to send a copy at the time it is filed to LPDB and to The Capital Appeals Project.
NOTE there is a capital appeal only if the jury and court actually impose a death verdict and sentence. If so, the appeal must be directly to the Supreme Court of Louisiana as indicated in the capital appeal motion and as required by law. DO NOT file a motion asking that capital appeal be lodged in a circuit Court of Appeal. If there is no death penalty imposed, even if the conviction is for first degree murder, but with a life sentence, the appeal is to the appropriate Court of Appeal and the forms and instructions for each circuit should be followed.If you need these forms in some other format, please contact: Jim Looney, Louisiana Appellate Project, Post Office Box 3340, Covington, LA 70434-3340, (985) 892-1707, looney@appellateproject.org and they will be promptly provided.