Steps in a civil appeal
Steps in a civil appeal
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.
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1. Figure out if you can appeal
Make sure you're allowed to appeal and that you've met the deadlines.
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2. File the notice of appeal
Let the superior court and the other side know that you are appealing the court's decision.
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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.
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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.
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5. Oral argument
Find out what happens in an oral argument and decide if you want to have one.
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6. Get the appellate court decision
When to expect the court's decision, and what happens if you lost or if you won.