How to appeal your case | California Courts | Self Help Guide

California Courts of Appeal

How to appeal your case

These are the basic steps in an appeal. Many steps, like filings, have strict deadlines. If you do file a notice of appeal, and you don't want to move forward, at any point you can cancel (abandon) your appeal.

Select any topic to get more information or step-by-step instructions.

1. Figure out if you can appeal

Make sure you're allowed to appeal and that you've met the deadlines.
2. File the notice of appeal

Let the superior court and the other side know that you are appealing the court's decision.
3. Designate the record and other filings

Let the superior court know what records to send to the appellate court. If your case is in the Court of Appeal, file a civil case information.
4. Prepare and file a brief

Prepare written documents that explain what the legal error was and how it changed the outcome of the case.
5. Oral argument

Find out what happens in an oral argument and decide if you want to have one.
6. Get the appellate court decision

When to expect the court's decision, and what happens if you lost or if you won.
7. After the appellate court's decision

What your options are after you get the appellate court's decision, like asking for a rehearing or review by a higher court, and how to end an appeals case.