California's Most Dedicated Attorney.
Appeals and Appellate Advocacy in California
Appeals and appellate advocacy require a unique blend of legal strategy, deep research, and persuasive writing. At the Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith, we take pride in turning hard losses into second chances.
If your trial didn’t go how it should have — or if you’re defending a victory from being overturned — we can step in with the clarity, credibility, and courtroom skill to guide your appeal.
What Is an Appeal?
An appeal is not a do-over of your trial. It’s a legal review of what happened — looking for legal errors, judicial missteps, or violations of your rights.
Appellate courts don’t retry facts. Instead, they examine the record from your case and decide whether the law was applied correctly. That’s why appellate work requires a sharp legal mind and attention to detail that most trial attorneys don’t offer.
Types of Appeals We Handle
We represent both individuals and businesses throughout California in civil and criminal appeals. Here’s what that may include:
Civil Appeals
From personal injury and contract disputes to probate and family law, we handle complex appeals in state and federal courts.
Criminal Appeals
If you or a loved one has been convicted of a crime, we can pursue relief through direct appeal, writ of habeas corpus, or even a motion for a new trial.
Administrative Appeals
We help clients challenge agency rulings involving licensing, professional discipline, or administrative penalties.
Family Law Appeals
California courts are increasingly active in family law reversals. We appeal custody rulings, property divisions, and restraining orders when legal standards were not correctly applied.
What Makes a Good Appeal?
Not every case is appealable, but many have more merit than clients realize. We carefully examine:
- Trial transcripts
- Motions and rulings
- Judicial conduct
- Jury instructions
- Evidentiary exclusions
- Constitutional violations
If legal error affected the outcome of your case, we’ll find it — and we’ll fight it.
Why Choose James L. Arrasmith?
James L. Arrasmith has over 15 years of experience in California’s legal system, and appellate work is one of the firm’s greatest strengths. Our office blends:
- ✍️ Meticulous legal writing
- ⚖️ Persuasive oral argument
- 📚 Deep understanding of appellate procedure
We don’t treat your case like just another file. Every appeal is a chance to rewrite a legal outcome — and sometimes, a life.
The Appeals Process in California
Here’s a basic overview of how an appeal works:
- Notice of Appeal – You must file within a strict deadline (usually 60 days from judgment).
- Record Preparation – We assemble the clerk’s transcript and reporter’s transcript.
- Appellate Briefing – We draft and file detailed written arguments.
- Oral Argument – In some cases, we appear before the appellate panel.
- Decision – The court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand your case.
Every step is high-stakes. Timing, writing, and analysis must be perfect. That’s where we come in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an appeal take in California?
Typically 12 to 18 months. It depends on the complexity of the case and the court backlog.
What’s the difference between an appeal and a new trial?
Appeals focus only on legal errors in the original case. A new trial reconsiders the facts and evidence.
Can I bring in a new attorney just for the appeal?
Yes — and often, you should. Appeals are a different battlefield, and they need an appellate-focused strategy.
Let’s Fix What Went Wrong
A court mistake doesn’t have to be the end of the road. Let James L. Arrasmith review your case and give you a candid, experienced take on your options.
Contact Us Now
