Appeal from the decisions of the District Court in the Civil or Criminal Matter lie to the High Court

There are mainly three types of jurisdiction by which the matters are entertained by the civil or criminal court. These are as follows:

• Territorial Jurisdiction
• Pecuniary Jurisdiction
• Jurisdiction with respect to the subject matter of the case

Any person who is aggrieved by the decision of the court can challenge the decision before the higher court for appeal.

• Appeal by the Convicted Person:  Any person who is convicted for an offence punishable with imprisonment of seven years or more on a trial held by a session judge or another court may appeal to the High Court.
• An appeal cannot be filed in the following cases  
  1. If the punishment for the crime is three months or less in jail or a fine of Rs. 200/- or less.
  2. If the fine is Rs. 100 or less, given by a magistrate of the first class, or Rs. 200 or less in a quick (summary) trial.
  3. If the accused confesses to the crime and is convicted—except when appealing against the length or legality of the sentence
• Appeal by the State 
  • The state government can appeal to the high court for enhancement of the sentence if it is inadequate.
  • The accused has the right to challenge the enhancement.
  • The state can appeal against an order of acquittal passed by the lower court, but only if the High Court grants leave.
• Appeal by Complainant 
  1. The complainant can appeal against an order of acquittal but must seek leave to appeal within 60 days.
  2. If the High Court refuses the application, the state cannot file an appeal.
• Procedure 
  1. The appeal is presented in written form by the convicted person, accused, or their advocate.
  2. If the convict is in jail, jail authorities may file the appeal on his behalf.
  3. The appeal must contain clear grounds and may be dismissed without a detailed hearing if no sufficient grounds exist.
  4. Appeals through jail authorities must still be heard unless they are frivolous.
  5. If an appeal is dismissed summarily, reasons must be recorded.
• Bail Pending Appeal  An appeal cannot be filed in these situations:
  1. If the punishment is 3 months or less or the fine is Rs. 200 or less.
  2. If the fine is Rs. 100 or less in a summary trial.
  3. If the accused admits guilt, except when questioning the legality or length of the sentence.
• Limitation Period 
  • 30 days for appeals against a death sentence.
  • 90 days for appeals against an acquittal order.
  • 90 days if seeking special leave to appeal.
• Court Fee 
  1. No court fee for appeals filed by convicted persons through jail authorities.
  2. Otherwise, court fees are applicable as per the Act.