What Are the Steps in Appealing a Family Law Decision?

division of marital property divorce judge court

Appealing a family law decision is possible in Tennessee, but there are important deadlines to remember and tough standards that your case needs to meet. Many types of family law verdicts can be appealed, but doing so on your own can be quite difficult. If you want to make your attempt more likely to be successful, you will want to contact a Memphis, Tennessee family law attorney from our firm.

When Do I Have to Submit My Appeal?

If someone wants to appeal a family law decision, they must act within 30 days. They need to file a notice of appeal with the trial court clerk. If you do not meet this deadline, your chance to appeal is gone. This is why having an attorney to keep track of paperwork and deadlines can be so valuable. If you contact our law firm after a verdict is handed down by the trial court, we can make sure that your notice of appeal is filed in a timely manner.

Which Decisions Can Be Appealed?

Either party involved in a case can make their own attempt at appealing a family law decision. The types of decisions that can be appealed include:

  • Visitation agreements
  • Child custody
  • Child support
  • Property distribution
  • Spousal support or alimony

If you believe that you have a case for appeal, then it may be time to contact an attorney and learn more about the process and requirements for overturning a family court verdict.

What Are the Requirements for Appealing a Family Law Decision?

When you appeal a family law decision, you need to obtain transcripts of the original hearing. Then you and your lawyer can look through these transcripts and develop the best possible legal strategy for appealing a family law decision. Your spouse may also file their own response. The arguments here are usually brief, so you must really make an impression on the panel of judges and show why the previous decision needs to be appealed or revisited.

What Are the Possible Outcomes of Appealing a Family Law Decision?

There are a few possible outcomes once a panel of appellate judges has heard your appeal and the other side’s case. The panel can decide to:

  • Reverse the original ruling
  • Uphold the original ruling
  • Return the case to a lower court

If they choose the third option, they may have particular instructions about how the trial court should approach your case or conduct a hearing.

Contact an Experienced Lawyer

If you are planning on appealing a family law decision, you do not need to do it on your own. Building a convincing case for appeal can be tough on your own, but our seasoned family law attorneys are ready to assist you. Contact Rice Law and learn more about your legal options and how to make a successful appeal.