Understanding Civil Appeals in Virginia
Navigating the appellate process in Virginia can be complex and requires a deep understanding of both state and federal appellate procedures. Our experienced team of appellate lawyers is dedicated to providing comprehensive and strategic representation to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.
What is a Civil Appeal?
A civil appeal is a request for a higher court to review the decision of a lower court that can include things like civil judgments and circuit court lawsuit decisions, child custody and visitation, or decisions related to estate administration, or other civil litigation from the trial court. This process is not about re-trying the case but rather about examining whether legal errors were made that could have affected the outcome. Common grounds for appeal include procedural errors, incorrect application of the law, or issues with the admissibility of evidence.
Our Appellate Services
Our firm offers a full range of appellate services, including:
- Pre-Appeal Consultation: We work with trial counsel to ensure that a complete record is created and that issues are properly preserved for appeal.
- Post-Trial Motions: Preparing and filing motions that are critical for setting up a successful appeal.
- Appellate Briefing: Drafting clear, concise, and persuasive briefs that highlight the legal errors made in the trial court.
- Oral Arguments: Presenting compelling arguments before appellate judges to advocate for our client’s position.
- Petitions for Rehearing: If necessary, we prepare and file petitions for rehearing to address any overlooked issues.
Why Choose An Ashwell & Ashwell Civil Appeals Lawyer?
Our appellate team combines extensive experience with a deep understanding of Virginia’s appellate courts, including the Virginia Court of Appeals, Virginia Supreme Court, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. Here are some reasons to choose our firm:
- Expertise: Our attorneys have clerked for appellate judges and have a thorough understanding of appellate procedures and judicial philosophies.
- Track Record: We have successfully handled numerous appeals in the Supreme Court of Virginia, the Court of Appeals of Virginia, and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Strategic Approach: We work closely with trial counsel from the outset to frame critical legal issues and ensure they are preserved for appeal.
- Comprehensive Representation: From initial consultation to final argument, we provide dedicated and strategic advocacy at every stage of the appellate process.
Representative Cases
Our firm has a history of successful appellate representation, including:
Reported Cases
- Chacey v. Garvey, 781 S.E.2d 357, (2015).
- Shepherd v. Conde, 797 S.E.2d 750 (2017)
- United States v. Bosyk, 933 F.3d 319 (4th Cir. 2019), cert denied, 140 S. Ct. 1124 (U.S. Feb. 24, 2020)(No. 19-860), 2019.
- Weatherholt v. Commonwealth, 839 S.E.2d 492 (2020).
- Spell v. Commonwealth, 851 S.E.2d 83 (2020)
- St. John v. Thompson, 854 S.E.2d 648 (2021)
Unpublished Cases
- Bd. of Supervisors v. Long, 2023 Va. App. LEXIS 547 * | 2023 WL 5207304 (2023)
- Kamga v. Commonwealth, 2024 Va. App. LEXIS 11 * | 2024 WL 157539 (2024)
- Ahmed v Imperial Auto, LLC, 2024 Va. App. LEXIS 181 * | 2024 WL 1381766 (2024)
- Renberg v. Renberg, 2024 Va. App. LEXIS 234 * | 2024 WL 1724034 (2024)
Experienced Civil Appeals Lawyers
Let us help you in appeals related to the following subject matters:
Business and Corporate Appeals
Handling complex issues such as breach of contract and corporate governance.
Family Law Appeals
Addressing matters related to divorce, custody, and support.
Personal Injury Appeals
Advocating for clients in cases involving significant damages and complex liability issues.
Criminal Appeals
Focusing on federal court matters and complex legal questions.
Contact the Civil Appeals Team At Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC
If you are considering an appeal or need assistance with an ongoing appellate matter, contact our experienced appellate team today. We offer consultations to discuss your case and provide a clear path forward.