Georgia Court of Appeals Attorney

Understanding which court should hear your appeal is critical. The Georgia Supreme Court handles constitutional questions, murder cases, and habeas corpus matters; most other appeals proceed in the Court of Appeals. Getting this initial court selection right reduces the risk of misdirected filings and delay.

At Strickland Webster, LLC, we guide clients through each stage with precise issue selection, clear writing, and measured advocacy—an approach suited to appellate practice, where disciplined analysis, not volume, carries weight.

The Appeals Process in Georgia

Effective advocacy before the Georgia Court of Appeals depends on understanding the procedural steps in an appeal. We guide our clients through each phase to ensure full compliance with all requirements and improve the likelihood of a favorable review.

Filing a Notice of Appeal

The process begins by filing a notice of appeal. In most civil and criminal cases, appellants have 30 days from the entry of judgment to act. If certain post-judgment motions (such as for a new trial, in arrest of judgment, or judgment notwithstanding the verdict) are filed, the 30-day period begins after those motions are disposed of. Missing these deadlines could permanently close the door on your right to appeal. 

Considering a Motion for New Trial

Occasionally, filing a motion for a new trial may be tactically wise before filing a direct appeal. Such a motion may serve to:

• Preserve additional appellate issues
• Afford the trial court a chance to address its own errors
• Strengthen the record for appeal
• May reset appeal deadlines

Determining whether to file one depends on the case posture and deadlines tied to the notice of appeal.

Building the Record on Appeal

A well-built appellate record is the foundation of every effective appeal. Coordinating transcripts and exhibits, ensuring designations are correct, and verifying certification reduces the risk of record issues later. The Court dockets the case only after receiving the complete record from the trial court clerk. 

Writing the Briefs

The briefing stage is where most appeals are decided. The appellant’s brief is generally due in 20 days. The appellee’s brief is due within 40 days of docketing or 20 days after the appellant’s brief—whichever is later. The appellant may file a reply brief within 20 days after the appellee’s brief. Clear issue framing, accurate standards of review, and precise citations are essential.

Presenting Oral Argument

Oral argument is not guaranteed; it is granted only at the Court’s discretion and must be requested. When scheduled, the Court sets the time allowed and determines the format, which may be in person or virtual. Argument is tightly limited, and focused answers to the panel’s questions carry the most weight. Preparation centers on the precise issues the Court has agreed to hear.

Awaiting the Decision

Under Georgia’s two-term rule, the Court of Appeals must decide a case by the end of the term following the one to which it’s docketed. In practice, that means resolution often occurs within the next term, subject to the Court’s calendar and the case’s complexity. 

If the court’s decision is unfavorable, several options may remain:

• A motion for reconsideration filed within 10 days after the Court’s decision.
• A notice of intention to petition for certiorari to the Georgia Supreme Court within 10 days of judgment or the order denying reconsideration. 
• In qualifying criminal cases, federal habeas corpus relief may be available.

Criminal appeals involve further procedural nuances, such as the right to challenge trial counsel’s effectiveness and, in limited circumstances, requests for out-of-time appellate relief. We address every procedural nuance to advance your appeal efficiently, ensuring deadlines and technical requirements are meticulously handled.