BELLEFONTE, Pa. (KDKA) – Jerry Sandusky is making a last-ditch effort to regain his freedom.

The appeals process for the former assistant Penn State football coach began Thursday in the same courtroom where a jury convicted him back in June.

Defense attorney Joe Amendola testified that he was unprepared when his client’s trial began.

He says he did not have time to read and analyze more than 12,000 discovery documents.

Prosecutors argued that Amendola did a professional job and say he is now making excuses in an attempt to avoid overwhelming evidence against his client.

During a heated cross examination, Amendola later admitted that much of the discovery was provided at his own request. He also said it would not have changed his trial tactics had he received and reviewed it sooner.

The defense was joined Thursday by Philadelphia attorney Norris Gelman, a man known for representing high profile defendants.

Defense attorneys also argued that Sandusky’s right to not testify was violated when prosecutors referred to an interview done with Bob Costas. They also took issue with instructions given to the jury.

Sandusky was convicted in June of sexually abusing 10 boys. He is serving a 30 to 60 years sentence at SCI Greene.

Sandusky’s attorneys say he is in good spirits and handling prison nicely, despite his frail appearance.

They remain optimistic about his appeal, while prosecutors say the people of Pennsylvania should feel confident the conviction will stand.

The judge did not immediately rule on the motions. He will issue a written decision at a later date. No word on how long that could take.

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