A family member has be convicted of sexually assaulting a young

1. From the basis facts you outline, this case definitely appears worth appealing as the evidence backing up the conviction appears weak. However, without knowing what went on in the jury room, it appears as if the jury just did not believe this ostensible independent witness and took the view that he was not credible and in fact what was going on was that some concealment of the offence was occurring. It is an open question whether on appeal, the judges hearing the appeal would take a similar view or whether they would believe this witness. However, it is certainly a strong point of appeal and should be vigorously pursued. Additionally, the point relating to the lapse of time and whether this prejudiced the defence should also be pursued as this would also appear to be a strong point, particularly if the family member can point to some prejudice in defending himself due to the lapse of time. Finally, the case should also be made on appeal that the comments of the judge in relation to the witness prejudiced the jury in their deliberations and should not have been made to the defendant's legal team. As a result, there are at least three good legal points on which to make an appeal. So an appeal should definitely be pursued.