Federal and Michigan Appeals
The Attorneys at Penzien & McBride represent clients in state and federal appeals of civil matters, criminal convictions or sentences and probate and family law matters. Whether you need help in the Michigan Court of Appeals, the Michigan Supreme Court or any Federal Court of Appeals, contact an attorney from our office.
The services we perform in handling your appeal include:
- Evaluating your case to determine the likelihood of success on appeal.
- Making a thorough review of the record in the trial court for errors in pretrial motions, decisions, evidentiary rulings, the sufficiency of the evidence to support any important findings of fact, and mistakes in interpreting statutes, regulations or procedural rules.
- Careful definition of the issues to be raised and presented on appeal.
- Thorough legal research and development of legal arguments.
- Well crafted and persuasive appellate briefs.
Oral argument before a panel of appellate judges seldom makes a significant difference in the outcome of a civil or criminal appeal. Review of the evidence, painstaking legal research and clear written presentation of your strongest arguments are the keys to preserving a favorable trial court ruling or reversing an adverse decision. That being said however we are skilled at making an oral argument on your behalf.
We represent both appellants and respondents in our appeals practice. While some of our appellate work is generated from the clients we represent at trial, we accept cases as well from clients who have engaged other counsel at the trial level. We are also available to collaborate with trial counsel in cases where one party or the other is likely to appeal the result - our participation can help preserve issues for appeal and make sure that offers of proof and other evidentiary tactics give your case its best chance for success, whether you will be attacking or defending the trial court judgment.
For additional information about our appellate services contact us.