Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C.

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Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C.

Serving clients nationwide from South Carolina in all U.S. Federal Circuit Courts. Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C.

Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C., is a federal criminal defense law firm specializing in federal appeals, sentencing advocacy, compassionate release, and prison consulting. is a nationally recognized federal criminal defense law firm dedicated to advocating for clients in complex federal cases. Led by experienced attorney Elizabeth Franklin-Best and federal prison expert Christopher Zoukis, we provid

e strategic representation on matters such as sentencing, appeals, 2255 petitions, compassionate release petitions, prison designation, disciplinary defense, and opportunities for early release from federal prison. Our team combines deep legal expertise with compassionate client service, ensuring each case receives personalized attention and effective advocacy at every stage of the federal criminal justice process.

08/28/2026

A plea agreement can shape the course of a federal criminal case and have consequences that extend beyond sentencing. Understanding the terms, and what rights you may be giving up before accepting one is critical.

WhiteCollarDefense

08/26/2026

We’re proud to share that our founder, Elizabeth Franklin-Best, has been named to The Best Lawyers in America® 2027 across three practice areas: Appellate Practice, Criminal Defense: General Practice, and Criminal Defense: White-Collar.

This recognition comes from a peer-review process, meaning it reflects the respect and trust Elizabeth has earned from other attorneys in her field. It’s a reflection of over 20 years of dedicated work fighting for clients in federal appeals and post-conviction cases.

Congratulations, Elizabeth! We’re proud to work alongside you. 👏

View her Best Lawyers® Profile here: https://www.bestlawyers.com/lawyers/elizabeth-franklin-best/269939

08/14/2026

Can new evidence be introduced during a federal appeal?

Here’s what you should know about what an appellate court can consider.

08/12/2026

We’re grateful for the trust our clients place in us, especially during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Thank you, Christopher, for taking the time to share your experience.

CriminalDefense ClientTestimonials

07/30/2026

Appeal and post-conviction relief are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same.

Although both involve asking a court to review a criminal case, they serve different purposes and take place at different stages of the legal process.

A direct appeal asks a higher court to review whether legal errors made during the trial or sentencing affected the outcome of the case. It is based on the record created in the trial court and does not involve presenting new evidence.

Post-conviction relief is a separate legal process that may be available after a direct appeal. Depending on the circumstances, it can be used to raise certain legal or constitutional claims that aren’t typically resolved on direct appeal, and in some cases may involve evidence outside the original trial record.

Understanding the distinction is important because these are different legal remedies with different purposes, procedures, filing deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Evaluating which legal remedy may be available requires a careful review of the facts, procedural history, and applicable law. Our practice is dedicated to helping clients navigate these complex appellate and post-conviction matters.

07/24/2026

The Michigan Court of Appeals vacated the convictions of Pete Musico and Paul Bellar, who were convicted of providing material support for terrorism in connection with the 2020 plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

The court held that, under Michigan law, kidnapping does not qualify as the predicate “violent felony” required to support convictions for providing material support for terrorism.

This ruling is a reminder that appeals often turn on how the law is interpreted and applied. A single legal issue can change the outcome of a case.

If legal errors affected the outcome of your federal criminal case, Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C. provides experienced representation in federal criminal appeals and post-conviction matters.

07/21/2026

A federal conviction doesn't just affect the person standing before the court. It affects families, too.

For many families, the hardest part isn't just hearing the verdict. It's trying to figure out what comes next.
Can the decision be challenged? Is there an appeal? Are there deadlines? What options, if any, are still available?

Every case is different, but understanding your legal rights and the appellate process can bring clarity during an incredibly difficult time. You don't have to have all the answers before seeking guidance. Understanding your options is an important first step.

If you have questions about a federal conviction, appeal, or post-conviction relief, we're here to help.

07/14/2026

A recent decision from the First Circuit is drawing attention in the federal criminal law community.

In United States v. Fulcar, the court addressed two important questions involving the federal career offender guideline. The ruling concluded that courts should rely on the federal list of controlled substances, not broader state laws, when determining whether certain prior convictions qualify under the guideline. The court also held that judges should look to the federal drug schedules in effect at the time of sentencing, rather than those in effect when the prior conviction occurred.

With more federal courts weighing in, all eyes will be on whether other circuits, or ultimately the U.S. Supreme Court, provide further clarity on these issues.

07/09/2026

Have you ever heard the term habeas corpus and wondered what it actually means?

A habeas corpus petition is a legal process that allows someone in custody to ask a federal court to review whether their detention violates the Constitution or federal law.

Unlike a direct appeal, it isn’t a new trial. Instead, it focuses on whether significant legal or constitutional errors may have affected the outcome of a case.
Not every case qualifies, and strict deadlines apply, so understanding your options early is important.

If you have questions about a federal conviction, appeal, or post-conviction relief, we’re here to help.

07/04/2026

Happy Independence Day!

Today, we celebrate the freedoms that unite us and reflect on the values of liberty, justice, and service.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and meaningful Fourth of July. However you’re celebrating, we hope it’s filled with time spent with family, friends, and community.

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C.

Address

3710 Landmark Drive #113
Columbia, SC
29204

Telephone

+18034451333

Website

https://federalcriminaldefenseattorney.com/, https://www.bestlawyers.com/lawyers/elizabeth-franklin-best/269939, https:/

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