Questions about appeals

Not long. In most courts the notice of appeal is due within weeks of the final judgment, and the exact time depends on the court and the kind of case. Missing it usually ends the appeal before it starts, so call as soon as the judgment is entered.

You don’t have to have one, but many people bring in an appellate lawyer, and many trial lawyers suggest it. An appeal is written argument about the law, read by judges who weren’t in the courtroom.

Sometimes. If the appellate court finds an error that mattered, it may order a new trial, a new sentencing or a new hearing. Often it decides the question itself and sends the case back with instructions.

Months, and often more than a year from the notice of appeal to a decision. The transcript and the court’s calendar set much of the pace.

Rarely. It defers to the jury and the trial judge on facts, and looks hard at the law: the rulings, the instructions and whether the evidence could support the verdict at all.

Appeals are priced by stage, each fee written down before that stage begins. Transcripts and filing fees are paid separately to the court reporter and the clerk.

Yes. Appeals are decided on paper, and Honora takes them from trial courts across the state and in federal court. Clients who can’t come to Franklin Street meet by video.

Only if you both want that. Most of the time Honora works beside you, and the client stays yours.