What’s next for convicted killer Nicholas Kassotis

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Less than a day after a jury found Nicholas Kassotis guilty of murdering and dismembering his second wife, his legal team has moved to appeal the verdict.

Kassotis was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole plus 25 years.

Earlier Friday, defense attorney Doug Weinstein told WTOC he would help Kassotis retain an appellate specialist to review the case.

A little over an hour later, our newsroom received an email confirming that an appellate lawyer has filed a motion seeking a new look at the conviction.

Weinstein says the appeal will argue the jury’s decision was unfair or unjust for several reasons, including what he describes as a lack of concrete evidence and potential bias stemming from the graphic nature of exhibits shown at trial.

“It’ll really be up to the appellate lawyer to look through this trial to look through all the exhibits, to look through the transcripts, look at the things I have done or not done,” Weinstein said.

A central claim: jurors were required to view graphic photographs of dismembered remains, which the defense believes created an unjust bias against Kassotis. The appeal will also note there were no direct eyewitnesses, no obvious motive presented, and that Kassotis’ DNA was not found at the crime scene, according to the defense.

Kassotis’ parents spoke in court during victim impact and sentencing and continue to maintain their son’s innocence while respecting the legal process.

Mother: “The thought that he could take someone else’s life is unbelievable, honestly.”

Father: “We know the person sitting there — our son — is a kind and gentle person.”

Father (on the verdict): “Though I disagree with the jury’s decision, I respect the process.”

Mother (on the verdict): “I respect the jury’s work that they put in, but they got this one wrong.”

Several jurors told our newsroom after the trial that a large amount of circumstantial evidence led to a swift decision.

The appellate filing asks the court to review the record, exhibits, and trial transcripts for potential legal errors or issues that could warrant a new trial or other relief. A judge will determine next steps and timelines in the coming weeks.

At a glance

• Verdict: Guilty of murder and dismemberment (jury verdict Thursday)
• Sentence: Life without parole + 25 years
• What’s new: Appellate motion filed; defense alleges jury bias and insufficient direct evidence
• Key defense points: No eyewitnesses; no clear motive; no defendant DNA at scene (per defense); graphic photos may have prejudiced jurors

What happens next?

• The appellate attorney will review trial transcripts and exhibits.
• The court will set a briefing schedule and consider the defense’s arguments.
• Possible outcomes range from upholding the conviction to ordering a new trial or other relief.

WTOC will continue to follow developments and update this story as new filings and court dates are set.