Experienced Appellate Attorneys Protecting Your Rights on Appeal

Appeals Lawyer in Columbia, MD

If you believe a trial court made a legal error in your case, an appeal can provide another opportunity for justice. At The Spencer Law Group, our appellate lawyers in Columbia, MD, specialize in reviewing trial court decisions and crafting persuasive arguments to higher courts. Whether you face a criminal, civil, or family law appeal, our team has the skills and insight to guide you through each step of the appellate process.

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Understanding the Appellate Process

An appeal is not a new trial. Instead, it is a request for a higher court to review the trial court’s record for legal errors. Appellate courts focus on questions of law such as whether the judge properly applied statutes, admitted or excluded evidence correctly, or gave appropriate jury instructions. Key features of the appellate process include:

Record Review

Appellate attorneys work with transcripts, exhibits, and court filings to identify possible errors.

Written Briefs

Lawyers submit appellate briefs that argue why the trial court’s decision should be reversed or affirmed.

Oral Argument

In many appeals, attorneys present their case before appellate judges and answer questions about legal issues raised in the briefs.

Standard of Review

Appellate courts apply different standards (for instance, abuse of discretion or de novo review) to various legal issues. Understanding which standard applies is critical to a successful appeal.

The entire process follows strict deadlines and procedural rules. Missing a filing date or failing to include required citations can jeopardize your appeal. Our appellate attorneys ensure every step is handled accurately and efficiently.

Common Appeals We Handle

Our team represents clients in a broad range of appellate matters, including:

Criminal Appeals

Challenging improper jury instructions or prosecutorial misconduct. Arguing suppression of evidence that should have been excluded. Seeking reversal of convictions based on insufficient evidence or constitutional violations.

Civil Appeals

Appealing adverse rulings in contract disputes, personal injury cases, or business litigation. Contesting summary judgment orders or decisions on motions to dismiss. Challenging damage awards or equitable relief decisions.

Family Law Appeals

Appealing child custody or support orders that ignore statutory guidelines. Contesting property distribution decisions in divorce cases. Challenging modifications to alimony or parenting agreements.

Administrative Appeals

Appealing decisions from state agencies, such as workers’ compensation or unemployment claims. Representing clients in appeals before regulatory boards.

Regardless of your case type, we carefully assess whether an appeal has merit, develop a strategic plan, and guide you through the technical rules of appellate practice.

Why You Need an Appellate Attorney

Specialized Expertise

Appellate practice requires skills distinct from trial work. You need an attorney who understands legal research, precedent, and persuasive writing tailored to appellate judges.

Procedural Precision

Appellate courts enforce strict rules on deadlines, page limits, and citation formats. Missing a requirement can result in dismissal of your appeal. We handle every procedural detail to protect your rights.

Objective Analysis

Emotions run high after a trial loss. An appellate attorney provides an objective review of the record to determine if legal errors occurred and if an appeal is likely to succeed.

Efficient Brief Preparation

Crafting a well-organized, compelling appellate brief demands careful analysis, concise writing, and pinpoint citations. Our attorneys draft briefs that highlight key legal issues and persuade the court.

Effective Oral Advocacy

When oral arguments are scheduled, our attorneys prepare thoroughly, anticipate judges’ questions, and present your case with clarity and confidence.

Appeals are time-consuming and complex. By hiring The Spencer Law Group’s appellate lawyers, you gain access to proven strategies, meticulous preparation, and unwavering dedication to your case.

Our Appellate Practice

Case Evaluation and Strategy

Review the trial record, motions, jury instructions, and transcripts. Identify potential legal errors, such as incorrect interpretations of law, procedural missteps, or evidentiary rulings. Advise you on chances of success, likely costs, and timelines.

Notice of Appeal and Record Preparation

File the Notice of Appeal within Maryland’s strict deadline – often 30 days from entry of judgment. Ensure the complete record on appeal is assembled, including transcripts and exhibits. Work with the circuit court clerk and court reporter to secure all necessary materials.

Appellate Brief Drafting

Craft a Statement of the Case and Statement of Facts that accurately reflect the record. Present clear, persuasive legal arguments supported by relevant precedent and statutory analysis. Respond to the opposing party’s brief (Reply Brief) to address counterarguments and reinforce your position.

Oral Arguments

Prepare an outline that highlights the strongest legal points. Conduct mock sessions to anticipate questions and refine responses. Present oral argument before appellate judges, focusing on legal standards and record evidence.

Post-Decision Options

If the appellate court’s decision is unfavorable, evaluate options such as rehearing requests, en banc review, or petitioning the Maryland Court of Appeals (the state’s highest court). Provide guidance on possible next steps, including seeking certiorari in federal appellate courts if constitutional issues are involved.

How the Appeals Process Works

Initial Consultation

Call (410) 203-2223 for a confidential meeting. We review your trial court documents, discuss potential issues, and explain the appellate timeline and costs.

Notice of Appeal

Maryland courts require strict adherence to appeal deadlines. We file the Notice of Appeal promptly to preserve your right to appellate review.

Record on Appeal

Our team orders transcripts and gathers exhibits, ensuring the full record is available to appellate judges. We verify the record’s completeness and accuracy.

Appellate Briefing Schedule

Appellant’s Brief: Typically due 30 days after the record is completed. We draft a compelling narrative and legal analysis. Appellee’s Brief: The opposing party responds within 30 days of receiving your brief. Reply Brief: You have a limited window to address issues raised by the appellee.

Oral Argument (If Granted)

The court schedules oral arguments, where our attorneys present legal points and answer judges’ inquiries. In some cases, the court may decide based solely on the briefs without argument.

Decision Issued

Appellate courts usually issue written opinions explaining their findings. We review the opinion with you, discuss its impact, and advise on any further steps.

Why Choose The Spencer Law Group for Appeals

Focused Appellate Expertise

Our attorneys dedicate significant time to appellate practice. We stay current on Maryland and federal appellate decisions and briefing techniques that resonate with appellate judges.

Record Review Skills

We meticulously examine trial transcripts, pleadings, and evidence to identify reversible errors or legal misapplications.

Strong Writing and Advocacy

Our briefs are concise, well-structured, and rich with persuasive authority. We know how to frame issues to highlight essential legal questions.

Strategic Case Management

We develop a customized appellate strategy, managing timelines, coordinating with court personnel, and keeping you informed throughout the process.

Client-Centered Service

We understand the stress of a trial loss. Our team provides honest assessments, manages expectations, and offers support to help you make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I appeal just because I am unhappy with the verdict?

No. Appeals must be based on legal errors such as incorrect application of law, improper jury instructions, or procedural mistakes. We evaluate the record to determine if valid appellate issues exist.

How long do I have to file an appeal in Maryland?

For most civil cases, you have 30 days from the date the judgment is entered to file a Notice of Appeal. Criminal appeals also follow strict timelines. Contact us immediately to preserve your rights.

What are the chances of success on appeal?

Success depends on the strength of your legal arguments, the standard of review, and the appellate court’s assessment of the record. Our attorneys provide an honest appraisal of your likelihood of reversal or modification.

Do appellate attorneys handle new evidence or witnesses?

Generally, appellate courts do not consider new evidence or testimony. Appeals focus on the existing trial record. If new evidence is critical, you may explore post-conviction relief or motions for a new trial in rare circumstances.

How much do appellate services cost?

Appellate fees vary based on case complexity, length of the record, and need for oral argument. We offer transparent estimates upfront and work efficiently to manage costs while maintaining quality representation.

Get Started with Your Appeal

If you believe your trial court decision involved a legal error, time is critical. Contact The Spencer Law Group’s Columbia, MD, appellate attorneys for a prompt case evaluation. We handle every detail, from filing your Notice of Appeal to presenting powerful arguments before higher courts.

Call (410) 203-2223 or visit our Contact page to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us help you pursue justice and safeguard your rights on appeal.