Need to appeal a federal conviction or sentence in Imperial Beach? Former federal prosecutor John D. Kirby handles Ninth Circuit appeals, 2255 motions, and post-conviction relief with 25+ years of federal appellate experience.
500 Third Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910
South Bay criminal cases
Fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, securities violations, public corruption
Federal trafficking, conspiracy, manufacturing, possession with intent to distribute
Organized crime, conspiracy charges, enterprise corruption, multi-defendant cases
Financial crimes, structuring, asset forfeiture, FinCEN and IRS investigations
IRS criminal investigations, failure to file, tax fraud, offshore account disclosures
2255 motions, direct appeals to the Ninth Circuit, post-conviction relief
The first step is to file a Notice of Appeal with the clerk of the South Bay Courthouse — San Diego Superior Court, typically within 14 days of the judgment. This notice formally starts the federal appeals process, which will then be transferred to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
No, while your trial occurred at the South Bay Courthouse — San Diego Superior Court, a federal appeal is not heard there. Instead, your case is reviewed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco or Pasadena, though local attorneys familiar with Imperial Beach cases often handle the initial trial record preparation here.
Yes, many criminal defense attorneys in San Diego County regularly practice at the South Bay Courthouse — San Diego Superior Court and can represent you on appeal. While the appeal itself goes to a higher court, an attorney experienced with local judges and procedures in Imperial Beach cases can ensure your trial record is properly preserved for review.
The South Bay Courthouse — San Diego Superior Court operates under its own local rules, its own judges, and its own assigned federal prosecutors. An attorney who regularly practices in this courthouse understands how specific judges handle suppression motions, what the assigned AUSA typically offers in plea negotiations, and what sentencing outcomes are realistic for cases from the Imperial Beach area. Do not hire a general practitioner who will be learning the federal system at your expense — your freedom deserves experienced representation that knows this courthouse.
For full practice area coverage — white collar crime, drug crimes, RICO, money laundering, tax evasion, healthcare fraud, PPP fraud, and federal appeals:
Kirby Law — Full Federal Criminal Defense PracticeFormer federal prosecutor John D. Kirby — 25+ years federal trial experience. Confidential consultation available.
All communications are confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege.