What Happens Right After a Guilty Verdict?

After a conviction, the case enters the sentencing phase. This could happen immediately or at a later hearing, depending on the severity of the charge. During sentencing, the judge considers:

• The statutory minimum and maximum penalties

• The Arkansas Sentencing Guidelines

• Prior criminal history

• Impact on victims

• Mitigating factors presented by your lawyer

For felonies, you could be looking at years or even decades of incarceration, supervised probation, fines, restitution, or mandatory programs. For misdemeanors, penalties may include jail time, license suspension, and a criminal record that limits employment or housing.

Can You Appeal If You Lose?

Yes, but appeals in Arkansas must be based on legal error—not just disagreement with the outcome. If you lose at trial, your lawyer must quickly:

• File a Notice of Appeal (typically within 30 days)

• Review the trial record for procedural or constitutional errors

• Present those errors to the Arkansas Court of Appeals or Supreme Court

This process can take months, sometimes years. And while you’re waiting, you may be required to serve your sentence.

That’s why you need a lawyer who has thought through your entire legal strategy before trial begins, including potential post-trial action.

How to Protect Yourself from the Risks of Trial

The best defense starts with choosing the right attorney. A strong Arkansas criminal defense lawyer will:

• Evaluate the strength of the evidence

• Explain your odds of winning at trial

• Negotiate favorable outcomes when the risk is too high

• Prepare a real defense—not just a closing argument

We break this process down in our guide on how to choose a criminal defense lawyer in Arkansas, so you know what questions to ask before it's too late.

And, to better understand our trial-ready methodology, visit our Criminal Defense Home Page.

Arkansas Sentencing: A Quick Reference Guide

Losing a criminal trial in Arkansas is serious. When the jury returns a guilty verdict, your future is immediately at risk. The next steps vary based on your charges—but the outcome will include a criminal conviction, court-imposed sentence, and a permanent mark on your record unless reversed on appeal.

At Ludwig Law Firm, we work as if we are going to trial for every case, and we prepare relentlessly to defend your future. If you want a winning defense, start here.

As always - if you have a legal question you want answered in a future blog, submit it above! Now, let's dive in.

Don’t Gamble With Your Future—Hire a Lawyer Who Knows What’s at Stake

Whether you’re weighing your options or already facing trial, Ludwig Law Firm can help. Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com to schedule your consultation now.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.