California
Appeals & Writs
Our Results
*Results are based on facts and law of that particular case
and do not represent a promise or guarantee as to your legal matter.
What is an Appeal?
An appeal is not a new trial. It’s a legal review of what happened in the trial court to determine whether the party had a fair trial or if the judge made any mistakes that changed the outcome of the trial.
Appeals focus on legal errors, including misapplied statutes, procedural mistakes, or constitutional violations.
Because appeals are decided almost entirely on written briefs and legal arguments, strategy, experience with appeal cases, and deep knowledge of appellate law matter significantly in these cases.
Why Appeals Matter in California
When cases go to appeal, the point is to identify legal error, frame issues persuasively, and present a clear narrative to appellate justices who were not in the courtroom.
Every appeal begins with a careful assessment of risk, cost, and likelihood of success. Not every case should be appealed, and part of our job at Jeff Lewis Law is helping clients make that decision with eyes wide open.
When an appeal moves forward, our role includes:
- Reviewing the trial record to identify appealable issues
- Developing a clear appellate strategy tailored to the standard of review
- Drafting persuasive briefs grounded in precedent and policy
- Handling oral argument before California and federal appellate courts
Our goal is always the same: to give the appellate court the strongest, clearest path to rule in your favor.
Types of Appeals We Handle
Jeff Lewis Law has handled over 300 appeals across California and federal courts, representing individuals, businesses, and trial counsel.
While known for First Amendment and defamation cases, our appellate work spans a wide variety of matters, including:
- Defamation, libel, slander, and free speech appeals
- Anti-SLAPP motions
- Attorney’s fee disputes
- Business and commercial litigation appeals
- Real estate and land use disputes
- Probate and trust litigation appeals
- Family law appeals
- Emergency writs
Types of Appeals We Handle
Jeff Lewis Law has handled over 300 appeals across California and federal courts, representing individuals, businesses, and trial counsel.
While known for First Amendment and defamation cases, our appellate work spans a wide variety of matters, including:
- Defamation, libel, slander, and free speech appeals
- Anti-SLAPP motions
- Attorney’s fee disputes
- Business and commercial litigation appeals
- Real estate and land use disputes
- Probate and trust litigation appeals
Criminal appeals
California Appeals Experience You Can Trust
Founder Jeff Lewis is a Certified Appellate Law Specialist by the California State Bar — one of roughly 350 attorneys in the state with this distinction out of over 200,000 licensed lawyers.
He has represented clients before:
- California Courts of Appeal
- Ninth and Sixth Circuit Courts of Appeal
- California and U.S. District Courts statewide
- United States Supreme Court
Trial lawyers frequently retain Jeff to provide a fresh, objective perspective on appeals, ensuring the strongest briefing and oral argument possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an appeal?
An appeal is a request for a higher court to review whether the trial court made legal errors. It is not a new trial and does not involve new witnesses or evidence. Appeals focus on whether the law, especially constitutional protections like the First Amendment, was applied correctly.
Can I appeal a defamation or First Amendment case?
Yes, many defamation and free-speech cases can be appealed. Appeals commonly arise when a court denies an anti-SLAPP motion, misapplies defamation standards, or fails to properly protect speech on matters of public interest. Not every ruling is appealable, and strict deadlines apply, so early review is critical.
Do I have to wait until the case is over to appeal?
Not always. Some rulings (such as the denial of an anti-SLAPP motion in California) may be immediately appealable. In other situations, an appeal can only be filed after a final judgment. Determining the right timing is a key part of appellate strategy.
How long do I have to file an appeal in California?
Appeal deadlines are strict and unforgiving. In many civil cases, the deadline may be as short as 60 days from notice of entry of judgment or order. Missing the deadline can permanently waive your right to appeal.
What happens during an appeal?
Appeals are decided primarily through written briefs submitted to the appellate court. These briefs explain:
- What legal errors occurred
- Why those errors matter
- How the law should have been applied
Oral argument may occur, but most appeals are won or lost based on the quality of the written advocacy.
Can an appeal stop enforcement of a judgment?
In some cases, yes. Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to stay enforcement of a judgment while the appeal is pending. This depends on the type of ruling and whether certain procedural steps are taken.
Do you handle appeals if you didn’t handle the trial?
Yes. Jeff Lewis Law is frequently retained by trial counsel or new clients to handle appeals. Appellate work often benefits from a fresh, objective review of the record and legal issues.
Should the same lawyer handle both the trial and the appeal?
Not necessarily. Appeals require a different skill set than trial work. Appellate lawyers focus on legal analysis, issue selection, and persuasive writing. In many cases, having separate appellate counsel improves the chances of success.
What outcomes are possible on appeal?
Depending on the case, an appellate court may:
- Reverse the trial court’s decision
- Send the case back for further proceedings
- Clarify or strengthen First Amendment protections
- Affirm the ruling
An appeal can sometimes end the case entirely or significantly change its direction.
How do I know if my case is worth appealing?
Not every case should be appealed. A strong appeal usually involves a clear legal error, not just an unfavorable outcome. A careful review of the record and ruling is the best way to evaluate whether an appeal makes sense.
Talk With an Experienced California Appellate Lawyer Before You Decide Your Next Step
Appeals move quickly, and deadlines are strict. If you’re considering an appeal (or responding to one), it’s critical to get informed guidance early. Book a consultation with Jeff Lewis Law today to discuss your options.