Practice Areas

Family Law Appeals

Comprehensive appellate services to help you challenge or defend family court rulings.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond initial court rulings.

Our experienced family law appellate attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served, even after a trial court has rendered its decision. We provide comprehensive appellate services to help you navigate the complexities of challenging or defending family court rulings.

Experienced Family Law Appellate Attorneys

Our family law team includes attorneys with extensive experience in handling family law appeals. We understand the intricate legal standards and procedures involved in the appellate process and are skilled in crafting compelling arguments to present before appellate courts. Our firm's depth of knowledge and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes make us a trusted choice for your appellate needs.

What is an Appeal?

An appeal is a legal process through which a party requests a higher court to review and change the decision of a lower court. Unlike a trial, an appeal does not involve presenting new evidence or re-arguing the facts of the case. Instead, it focuses on whether legal errors were made during the trial that affected the outcome of the case. The appellate court examines the trial record, legal briefs submitted by both parties, and oral arguments to determine if the trial court's decision should be upheld, reversed, or remanded for further proceedings.

Who Might Need to Appeal a Family Court Ruling?

Appealing a family court ruling may be necessary for various reasons. You might consider an appeal if:

  • You Believe a Legal Error Occurred: If you believe the trial court made an error in applying or interpreting the law, an appeal can seek to correct this mistake.
  • Your Rights Were Violated: If procedural errors or violations of your legal rights occurred during the trial, an appeal might be warranted.
  • The Ruling Was Unjust: If the final decision is perceived as unfair or not supported by the evidence presented, appealing the ruling can provide an opportunity for reconsideration.
  • You Disagree with the Court's Interpretation of Facts: While appeals generally do not re-examine factual determinations, significant misinterpretations of facts that impacted the legal conclusions can be grounds for appeal.

Why Appeals Are Necessary

Appeals are a crucial part of the legal system, ensuring that trial court decisions adhere to legal standards and principles. They provide a mechanism for correcting errors and achieving fair outcomes. Appeals may be necessary to:

  • Ensure Legal Accuracy: Correcting errors in the application or interpretation of the law ensures that justice is accurately administered.
  • Protect Rights: Safeguarding procedural fairness and protecting the legal rights of parties involved in family law cases is essential for maintaining trust in the legal system.
  • Achieve Just Outcomes: Appeals can rectify unjust decisions, ensuring that the final outcome is equitable and based on sound legal reasoning.
  • Clarify Legal Standards: Appellate decisions often serve to clarify and set precedents for legal standards, guiding future cases and judicial decisions.

At Reardon House Colton, we recognize the significant impact family court rulings can have on your life. Our appellate attorneys are here to provide you with the skilled representation and dedicated advocacy needed to challenge or defend rulings on appeal. We work meticulously to ensure that your appeal is well-founded and persuasively presented, striving to achieve the justice and fairness you deserve.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to appeal a family court ruling in Arizona?
Generally, a notice of appeal must be filed within 30 days of the entry of the final judgment. Because the deadline is strict, it is important to consult an appellate attorney quickly.
Can I present new evidence on appeal?
No. An appeal is not a new trial. The appellate court reviews the existing trial record for legal error rather than re-weighing the facts or considering new evidence.
What is the difference between an appeal and a modification?
An appeal asks a higher court to review a ruling for legal error made at trial. A modification asks the trial court to change an existing order because circumstances have changed since it was entered.

Get in touch

Ready to discuss your legal needs? Reach out to our team for a confidential consultation.