Appellate Practice Attorneys– Fighting for Justice Through Appeals

Not every legal case ends with the trial court’s decision. If a judge or jury made an error in your case, you may have the right to appeal. The appellate process is highly technical and requires an attorney experienced in appellate litigation to challenge legal mistakes effectively.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we handle civil and criminal appeals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Our appellate attorneys meticulously analyze trial records, identify legal errors, and craft persuasive legal arguments to overturn unjust rulings. Whether you are seeking to reverse a conviction, appeal a denied motion, or defend a favorable trial ruling on appeal, we provide strategic and aggressive appellate representation.

Why You Need a Lawyer for an Appeal

Appeals are significantly different from trials. The appellate court does not retry cases or hear new evidence. Instead, it reviews legal errors made during the trial and determines whether they affected the outcome.

Here is why hiring an appellate attorney is critical:

• Strict Deadlines Apply – Appeals must be filed within a limited time, or the right to challenge the decision is lost.
• Appellate Courts Focus on Legal Errors, Not Facts – A successful appeal requires identifying legal mistakes, not simply arguing that the verdict was unfair.
• A Well-Written Brief is Crucial – Appellate judges rely heavily on written arguments, making strong legal writing essential.
• Oral Arguments Require Skilled Advocacy – If the court grants oral argument, an experienced appellate lawyer can effectively present the case.

Our firm has extensive experience handling appeals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and understands the complexities of appellate litigation.

Common Appellate Cases We Handle

Ratliff Jackson LLP represents clients in a wide range of appellate matters, including:

• Criminal Appeals – Challenging wrongful convictions, excessive sentences, and violations of constitutional rights.
• Civil Appeals – Appealing court decisions in contract disputes, business litigation, and personal injury cases.
• Family Law Appeals – Challenging or defending rulings in child custody, divorce, and alimony disputes.
• Title IX and Education Law Appeals – Seeking to overturn wrongful disciplinary actions or school-related decisions.
• Consumer Fraud and Business Litigation Appeals – Representing individuals and businesses in consumer protection and contract dispute appeals.

If you believe the court made a legal mistake in your case, our appellate attorneys can evaluate whether an appeal is the right course of action.

Potential Remedies – What an Appeal Can Achieve

Depending on the case, an appellate court may:

• Reverse the Lower Court’s Decision – Overturning an incorrect ruling and granting a new trial or judgment.
• Modify the Judgment or Sentence – Reducing penalties, damages, or altering the terms of the court’s decision.
• Remand the Case for Further Proceedings – Sending the case back to the lower court for reconsideration under new legal guidance.
• Uphold the Lower Court’s Ruling – If the appellate court finds no error, it may affirm the decision.

Who We Help – Representing Clients in Civil and Criminal Appeals

Our appellate attorneys represent:

• Defendants seeking to overturn wrongful convictions or unfair sentences.
• Individuals and businesses appealing civil court rulings.
• Parents and spouses involved in family law appeals.
• Students and professionals challenging administrative decisions.

If you are considering an appeal, it is crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if I have grounds for an appeal?

An appeal must be based on legal errors made during the trial. Our appellate attorneys can review the trial record and determine if there are valid grounds to challenge the decision.

How long does the appellate process take?

The length of an appeal varies, but it typically takes several months to a year. The process involves filing a notice of appeal, preparing legal briefs, and presenting oral arguments if required.

Can new evidence be introduced on appeal?

No. Appeals focus on whether legal errors occurred during the original trial. No new evidence or witnesses can be presented.

What happens if I lose my appeal?

If an appeal is denied, there may be further legal options, such as requesting a rehearing or appealing to a higher court. Our firm can assess the next steps if necessary.

Take Action Now – Contact an Appellate Attorneys

If you believe a legal error affected the outcome of your case, do not wait to take action. Appellate deadlines are strict, and a delay could result in losing the right to challenge the decision.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, our appellate attorneys have a deep understanding of the appeals process and a proven track record of success. Whether you are looking to appeal a criminal conviction, a civil ruling, or a business dispute, we are prepared to fight for justice.

Contact us today to discuss your case and determine the best path forward.