Why Seek an Appellate Consultation?

In almost every lawsuit that goes to trial, there is always a clear winner and loser. Many clients who lose at trial will accept their judgment without any contest. If you lost and you believe that either the judge or jury were wrong or made a crucial legal error, you may have the right to have an intermediate appellate court review the judgment.

What Is Appellate Support and Guidance on Appeals in Washington State?

The Washington Court of Appeals is a non-discretionary appellate court, which means that, in most cases, it must accept, review, and issue a written decision for every appeal filed. An appellate lawyer can help clients assess the likelihood of their success on appeal, develop an effective appellate strategy, and identify the best issues to pursue and raise before the appellate court.

Having the same appellate attorney from the start to the end of the appeal is highly crucial because they tailor their services to suit each case. Appellate rules and procedures differ significantly from the trial court, meaning appellate attorneys tend to operate differently from trial attorneys.

Instead of fact-based arguments, appellate attorneys focus more on legal arguments and issues to convince the court that their case should prevail as a matter of law. This approach requires significant research as well as an understanding of substantive legal principles and processes.

Why Hire an Appellate Lawyer During or Before Trial?

Appellate attorneys can team up with trial counsel at the outset of a case to discuss cutting-edge issues that might give rise to an appeal and offer an appellate-specific view of potential drawbacks where the law is unsettled or undetermined. Here are some additional benefits of hiring an appellate lawyer:

• Familiarity: Appellate lawyers know which orders are appealable and which are not, as well as how to draft a proper notice of appeal.
• Objectivity: If the attorney joins the team after the trial process, they will view the case the same way the appellate court would see it.
• Time: Appeals are time-consuming, especially if the trial attorney is unfamiliar with appellate procedures.

If you are considering whether to pursue an unfavorable trial court ruling on appeal, we are certain that our extensive experience will be valuable to you. Contact Athan Law at (509) 215-4679 if you would like to schedule an appellate consultation.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Every case or situation is unique, and you should consult with a licensed attorney before taking any action. No attorney-client relationship is formed by downloading or reading this article.

Posted February 10, 2023