Appellate Practice
Sometimes the verdict or ruling doesn’t go your way and you should consider an appeal. Sometimes the ruling or verdict is exactly what you wanted and your adversary appeals. Either way, you will likely need an expert appraisal of your options and likely prospects, perhaps followed by representation in the higher court(s). Navigating this complex landscape requires experienced guidance.
Understanding the Appellate Process
An appeal is not a new trial but rather a review of the lower court’s decision or the jury’s verdict. The process typically involves several key steps:
- Filing a Notice of Appeal: This crucial first step must be done within strict time limits to preserve your right to appeal.
- Record Preparation: We compile all relevant documents and transcripts from the lower court proceedings.
- Brief Writing: Our attorneys craft persuasive written arguments, highlighting legal errors made in the lower court.
- Oral Arguments: We present our case before a panel of appellate judges, addressing their questions and concerns.
- Decision: The appellate court issues a ruling, which may affirm, reverse, or modify the lower court’s decision.
Throughout this process, attention to detail, thorough legal research, and strategic thinking are paramount. (Strategically, sometimes less is more. But sometimes less is less.) That’s where our expertise comes in.
The appellate attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. have a proven track record of success in navigating this difficult world of appeals, representing both appellants and respondents across various areas of civil practice, from personal injury cases to commercial litigation.
A Record of Success
We are a full-service appellate practice with the resources, talent, and experience to handle appeals at all levels of state and federal courts. Our attorneys have argued literally hundreds of appeals, securing numerous victories for our clients, protecting their rights and interests in critical cases. We are proud to have frequently made law in doing so.
We guide you through every step of the appellate process, from evaluating the merits of your appeal to crafting persuasive briefs and delivering compelling oral arguments. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Our appellate team is well-versed in the nuances of appellate practice, including strict procedural rules and filing deadlines. We understand that appellate courts function differently from trial courts, and we tailor our approach accordingly.
Comprehensive Appellate Services
Our appellate practice offers a wide range of services, including:
- Consulting with trial counsel on preserving issues for appeal
- Evaluating potential appeals
- Drafting and filing notices of appeal
- Preparing appellate briefs and motions
- Oral argument before appellate courts
- Handling post-appeal motions and petitions
We have also prepared and filed amicus curiae briefs for clients who are not parties to an appeal but have an interest in its outcome.
The Art of Appellate Advocacy
Appellate practice requires a unique set of skills. Our attorneys excel in:
- Analyzing trial records
- Identifying of judicial errors
- In-depth legal research
- Crafting persuasive written arguments
- Delivering effective oral advocacy
We understand that the heart of every appeal is the appellate brief. Our team dedicates considerable time and effort to developing compelling legal arguments that clearly communicate the errors of the lower court and persuade appellate judges.
Contact Us for a Consultation
If you’re considering an appeal or need to respond to one, contact an experienced appellate attorney as soon as possible. Strict deadlines apply in appellate cases, and missing them could result in losing your right to appeal.
Our attorneys offer initial consultations to evaluate the merits of your potential appeal. We will assess your case, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed.
Let us put our appellate expertise to work for you.