What right do defendants have if they are not satisfied with the outcome of their trials?

Defendants have the right to appeal a decision made in a criminal trial if they believe that there were errors in the trial process that affected the verdict or the sentencing. This right is a fundamental part of the legal system, ensuring that individuals have an opportunity to seek a review of their case by a higher court. The appeals process allows for the examination of the trial's conduct, the application of the law, and whether the defendant's rights were upheld throughout the proceedings. This mechanism is vital for maintaining fairness and accountability within the judicial system, as it provides a check against mistakes or injustices.

While options like petitioning for a pardon or pursuing a civil suit may also be available to a defendant in certain circumstances, they do not serve the same purpose as an appeal. A pardon is typically granted for mercy and does not address trial errors, and a civil suit might not relate to the specific grievances about the criminal trial's outcome. The right to request a retrial can be complex, often requiring specific legal standards to be met, which is also distinct from the more straightforward process of appealing a verdict. Thus, the ability to appeal is the most directly applicable right regarding dissatisfaction with trial outcomes.