What act governs criminal appeals in New South Wales?

The appropriate act governing criminal appeals in New South Wales is the Criminal Appeal Act 1912. This legislation provides the framework and guidelines for individuals wishing to appeal a conviction or sentence. It outlines the processes for appeals at various judicial levels, specifies the grounds on which appeals can be made, and establishes the procedures for the Court of Criminal Appeal.

This act is foundational in ensuring that the rights of defendants are upheld within the appeal process, allowing for a review of legal decisions made in lower courts. The significance of this legislation has remained vital in continuing to refine and define how appeals are handled, making it crucial in the realm of criminal law in New South Wales.

Other legislative frameworks such as the Crimes Act 1900 and the Criminal Procedure Act 1986 address different aspects of criminal law and procedure, but they do not specifically govern the appeals process as the Criminal Appeal Act 1912 does. The Criminal Appeals Act 2004, while it may be related to appeals, does not hold the same authoritative position in governing criminal appeals as the 1912 Act.