UNITED STATES v. COLLINS (2020)

Vernell Collins appeals the district court's order denying her motion pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 983(g) (2018). The Government has moved to dismiss the appeal as untimely filed. Because Collins is appealing from the district court's November 22, 2019, order, rather than the criminal judgment, we conclude that Collins timely noted this appeal.

On appeal, however, we confine our review to the issues raised in the informal brief. See 4th Cir. R. 34(b). Because Collins’ informal brief does not challenge the basis for the district court's disposition, she has forfeited appellate review of the court's order. See Jackson v. Lightsey, 775 F.3d 170, 177 (4th Cir. 2014) (“The informal brief is an important document; under Fourth Circuit rules, our review is limited to issues preserved in that brief.”). Accordingly, we deny the Government's motion to dismiss, grant leave to proceed in forma pauperis, and affirm the district court's judgment. We dispense with oral argument because the facts and legal contentions are adequately presented in the materials before this court and argument would not aid the decisional process.

AFFIRMED

PER CURIAM:

Affirmed by unpublished per curiam opinion. Unpublished opinions are not binding precedent in this circuit.