Businesses and individuals navigating litigation expect justice after their day in court. Judges review evidence provided by both sides and then interpret both statutes and case law before entering their ruling. Typically, everyone involved in the lawsuit must abide...
Appellate Law
Could a defense attorney’s conduct lead to an appeal?
People who assert their innocence while facing criminal charges have several options available. Many make an effort to defend against their charges by taking their cases to trial. Unfortunately, not everyone who tries to fight pending charges effectively exonerates...
5 mistakes that could scuttle your appeal
Filing an appeal after an unfavorable verdict is a significant decision that requires careful planning and precision. Appeals are not a second trial but a review of whether the lower court made legal errors. Missteps in preparing or presenting an appeal can easily...
How missing evidence can jeopardize your appeal
When you are counting on an appeal to fix what went wrong at trial, the trial record is a piece of evidence that you cannot afford to lose. In Texas appellate courts, the record is everything. Suppose a document was not admitted, a witness’s testimony was not...
How do you file a notice of appeal in Texas?
Filing a notice of appeal in Texas may seem challenging, but mastering the procedural steps can simplify the process. If you have received an adverse ruling and seek to challenge the decision, filing a notice of appeal represents the first critical step. This document...
What are the challenges in handling interlocutory appeals?
An interlocutory appeal occurs when a party challenges a trial court’s ruling before the case reaches a final judgment. These appeals address significant legal questions that may affect the outcome of a case. While they can provide critical legal clarity, they also...
What is the role of amicus curiae briefs in appellate cases?
Appellate cases often involve complex legal issues that can have wide-reaching effects. Amicus curiae briefs, or "friend of the court" briefs, play an important role in these cases by providing additional perspectives and knowledge to the court. These briefs help...
How do appellate courts handle new evidence?
Appellate courts play a crucial role in reviewing decisions made during trials, but they have strict rules when it comes to handling new evidence. Understanding how appellate courts approach new evidence helps clarify their purpose and limitations in the legal...
Understanding state and federal appeal processes
In the realm of legal matters, the appeal process serves as an important avenue for individuals dissatisfied with court decisions to seek a review of their case. Distinguishing between state and federal appeal processes is necessary for those navigating the intricate...
On what grounds can you appeal a criminal conviction?
A conviction for a criminal offense can impact various aspects of your life. Depending on the crime in question, a conviction can lead to incarceration, fines and community service. Worse still, a conviction for certain crimes can lead to your deportation from the U.S...

