Civil Appellate Lawyers in Baltimore

Handling Civil Appeals in Maryland, Washington, D.C. & Across the U.S.

If a civil judgment did not go your way, you may be able to appeal the decision provided certain requirements are met. If you are considering an appeal, it is important that you act fast. There are strict timelines in place whether you are appealing a Maryland state court or a federal decision.

An effective appeal requires an attorney who not only understands the underlying law, but also the nuances of civil appellate practice. The Baltimore civil appeals attorneys at Nathans & Ripke LLP are renowned within the legal world for their abilities at both the trial and appellate levels. They are a respected resource for both Maryland state and federal judges.

Appeals are tough. Let us put our experience and skill to work for you. If you are contemplating an appeal, contact our firm right away at (410) 783-0272.

How Civil Appeals Work

An appeal is not always an automatic right. A decision may only be appealed if there was an error of law or fact at the trial court level. Even if a mistake was made, the decision may not be reversed unless it can be shown that the error impacted the outcome.

Our lawyers excel in appellate practice because we have the knowledge and experience necessary for a successful appeal. This requires attention to the details. In federal appeals, this means following the federal, district, and local court rules which govern appellate procedure.

There are three vital factors to consider when filing for an appeal:

• Timing: The timing of the appeal is crucial. The first step in the appeals process is to make sure that you timely file a notice of appeal.
• Stay from judgment: In civil matters, it is often crucial to obtain a stay from judgment. This enables individuals to suspend money judgments, injunctions, or the transfer of some assets.
• Written brief: The most critical part of an appeal is the written brief. A persuasive argument must be made based on the trial court record alone. No new information may be introduced. In many instances, the appellate courts will make a determination based on the strength of the appellate briefs alone.
• Oral Argument: Organized, well researched, and effective oral advocacy can also often make the difference in the success of your appeal. 

The lawyers at Nathans & Ripke LLP excel in drafting compelling briefs and presenting legal arguments before state and federal judges. Over the years, we have built a reputation as formidable opponents in both the trial court and appellate court world. Whether appealing a decision directly or filing a petition for writ of certiorari, we have the experience necessary to represent your interests on appeal.