Appellate Law is the branch of law that deals with the process of appealing a court decision to a higher court. It involves challenging the ruling made in a trial court (such as a District or Superior Court) and seeking a review of the decision by an appellate court, which could be the North Carolina Court of Appeals or the North Carolina Supreme Court. The appellate court does not re-hear the facts of the case or re-try the evidence but instead reviews whether the law was applied correctly in the lower court.
Why Appellate Law Matters
Appellate law serves a critical role in ensuring that legal principles are consistently and correctly applied. If a party believes that a mistake has been made in how the law was interpreted or applied in a trial court, the appellate system provides a check on those errors, ensuring justice and fairness.
For example, in Termination of Parental Rights cases, the impact on a family can be profound. If a parent feels that the trial court made a legal mistake—such as misapplying the law regarding the best interests of the child or not fully considering evidence—they may seek an appeal. Appellate Law helps clients protect their rights and navigate the legal intricacies of these life-changing decisions.
How Michael and Russell, PLLC Supports Clients in Appellate Matters
By offering appellate services, Michael and Russell, PLLC can help clients navigate the complexities of appeals in Family and Juvenile law, including matters related to child welfare, parental rights, and custody disputes.
In addition to helping families on appeal, the firm’s approach allows for cost-saving measures and effective case strategies, providing clients with a comprehensive and cohesive legal service.