Former sitcom star Danny Masterson faces a new chapter in his legal battle as he challenges his rape conviction through his attorney.

According to Page Six, the "That '70s Show" actor has officially filed an appeal of his conviction, which resulted in a 30-year to life prison sentence for two rapes committed in 2003.

Attorney Cliff Gardner submitted a 246-page document outlining numerous alleged errors and biases that he claims violated Masterson's rights to confrontation and a fair trial.

The appeal, filed on Wednesday, represents a significant development in the high-profile case that has captured public attention since Masterson's arrest in 2020.

Legal Team Presents Multiple Defense Arguments

Gardner's appeal centers on two fundamental challenges to the conviction. The attorney maintains that judicial rulings during the trial unfairly influenced the jury's perspective of the evidence. Additionally, he argues that crucial exculpatory evidence was withheld from the jury's consideration, potentially affecting the trial's outcome.

The defense team has announced plans to supplement the current appeal with additional documentation. Gardner indicated that a habeas lawyer would file a Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus to highlight what they consider additional procedural flaws in the trial process. These developments mark the latest phase in a legal battle that began with Masterson's arrest three years ago.

Masterson's original attorney, Tom Mesereau, stated:

We're confident that he will be exonerated when all the evidence finally comes to light and witnesses have the opportunity to testify. Obviously, Mr. Masterson and his wife are in complete shock considering that these nearly 20-year old allegations are suddenly resulting in charges being filed, but they and their family are comforted knowing that ultimately the truth will come out.

Trial History And Conviction Details

The 48-year-old actor's legal journey has been complex and multifaceted. His first trial ended without a resolution when the original jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict.

The subsequent retrial in May 2023 resulted in convictions on two counts of rape, while a third count was dismissed due to jury deadlock.

Masterson had maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, entering a not-guilty plea in January 2021. The charges stemmed from incidents that occurred in 2003, leading to his arrest in 2020. The prosecution successfully secured convictions on two of the three original charges, resulting in a substantial prison sentence.

Personal Life And Imprisonment Impact

The conviction has had far-reaching consequences for Masterson's personal life. His wife, Bijou Phillips, who initially supported him throughout the trial, filed for divorce following his sentencing.

The couple reached an agreement regarding the custody of their 10-year-old daughter, Fianna, with Phillips receiving both legal and physical custody.

Masterson's current incarceration situation has evolved since his sentencing. Initially held at the maximum security Corcoran State Prison, he was transferred to California's Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo in February. Despite his imprisonment, he has maintained some family connections, receiving a visit from Phillips and their daughter during his birthday in March.

Appeal Process Moves Forward

The extensive appeal document filed by Gardner represents a comprehensive challenge to the trial's validity. The legal team's strategy focuses on questioning judicial decisions and highlighting what they claim to be overlooked evidence. This appeal process marks the beginning of what could be a lengthy legal battle to overturn the conviction.

The case continues to draw attention from both the entertainment industry and legal observers. As proceedings move forward, the courts will evaluate the merit of the defense's claims regarding trial irregularities and evidence handling.

The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact Masterson's future and the broader discourse surrounding sexual assault cases in the entertainment industry.

Why This Story Matters

The Danny Masterson case serves as a critical reminder of the challenges within our legal and judicial systems, especially concerning trials with significant public interest and media coverage. It beckons a closer look at how justice is administered, particularly in cases involving well-known personalities.

In conclusion, Danny Masterson's appeal brings to light various concerns regarding fairness and evidence handling in high-profile legal cases. This situation underscores critical questions about the effectiveness of our judicial system and the complexities involved in such legal battles, symbolizing a significant narrative in contemporary legal and cultural discourse.