The length of a criminal appeal process depends on each case. You and the courts must meet certain deadlines. Much of this comes down to how quickly the attorneys and trial judge involved can work. On average, an appeal can take a year, sometimes longer. The deadline for an appeal in Pennsylvania can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the backlog of cases in the appellate court, and whether oral arguments are scheduled.
In general, family court appeals in Pennsylvania can take several months to a few years to resolve, depending on the circumstances. It's important to be prepared for a potentially lengthy process and to manage your expectations accordingly. However, appeals filed in cases involving children are classified as “quick appeals for children” and are given priority and scheduled more quickly than other appeals. In Pennsylvania, the current general rule is that it takes approximately one year for an appeal to go from filing a notice of appeal to the issuance of a final order. Instead, the party files a request for authorization to appeal (also called a motion for award) asking the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to bring the case to appeal.
Civil appeals to the Supreme Court of the United States are also through authorization, which is obtained by filing a certiminary petition or “certification petition”. It is important that you talk to your lawyer to learn about the potential costs associated with filing an appeal and to balance this with the cost of allowing a family law decision to be made keep without appeal. However, it's important to note that there may be exceptions or extensions to the deadline under certain circumstances, and consulting with an experienced appellate attorney can help ensure that you meet all the requirements and deadlines for filing an appeal. While you have the right to appeal, it's crucial to act promptly, as there are strict deadlines for filing an appeal.
It is advisable to seek the guidance of an appellate attorney who can provide you with personalized advice and representation throughout the appeal process in a family law case. Understanding the reasons for the appeal and the appeal process can be crucial in determining if filing an appeal is appropriate in a particular family law case in Pennsylvania. A decision made in family court can be appealed if you believe that the trial court made a legal error, abused its discretion, or if there were procedural errors during the trial court process. If a trial court order or ruling is upheld, the appellant has won the appeal and the trial court's ruling stands.
An appellate lawyer may be able to give you an overall assessment of the merits of the appeal, but they can never predict the outcome with complete certainty. The appellate process can be complex and time-consuming, and it is generally recommended to seek the help of an appellate attorney who can guide you through the process and represent your interests effectively. The reasons for filing an appeal may vary depending on the specific facts and circumstances of each case, and it's crucial to consult with an experienced appellate attorney to determine if filing an appeal is appropriate in your particular situation. In Pennsylvania, the deadline for filing an appeal is generally 30 days from the issuance of the final order or judgment that you want to appeal.
