What is an Appeal?
Here at LaMonaca Law we strive to bring the best legal team and representation to our clients. LaMonaca Law’s Appellate Unit is a specialty team within the firm focusing on cutting edge law, procedure and the representation of clients in all phases of the appellate process. What is an Appeal? We provide consultation and assistance to outside attorneys regarding the appellate process. Additionally, the Appellate Unit accepts referrals from outside attorneys to handle their family law appeals.
What is an appeal?
An appeal is an application made to the Pennsylvania Superior Court or Pennsylvania Supreme Court seeking review of the trial court’s decision. Generally, to be successful on an appeal, you must show that the trial court made an error of law or abused its discretion in making a final ruling in your case. Appeals to the Superior Court from a final order are a matter of right (Rule 341). Appeals to the Supreme Court are granted only by permission of the Court under limited circumstances (Rule 1112).
What kind of orders can be appealed?
Generally speaking, only final orders can be appealed (Rule 341). There are some exceptions for interlocutory or collateral orders, but they tend to be appealed under very specific and limited circumstances (Rules 313 and 311). A final order is one that disposes of all claims between all parties. Generally, a final order ends the case and puts someone out of court.
How do you appeal?
You must file a notice of appeal with the trial court within thirty (30) days of the entry of the final order (Rule 903). If your case is a custody case, it will be designated a Children’s Fast Track Appeal and you must file a Statement of Errors Complained of on Appeal (Rule 1925(b)) simultaneously with the notice of appeal (Rule 905(a)(2)).
Appellate practice is riddled with potential procedural pitfalls and you should seek representation from an experienced attorney when filing any appeal. The appellate courts strenuously enforce rules and deadlines. Failure to comply with the rules could lead to your appeal being dismissed. If you think you have an order that needs to be appealed, click or call 610-892-3877 and request to speak to someone in our Appellate Unit to get the assistance and guidance you need to navigate this process.
