At Brownstone Law, we specialize in appellate litigation, offering exceptional representation to clients navigating North Carolina’s appellate court system and federal district courts. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing meticulous and effective advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes.

North Carolina Appellate Court System Overview

North Carolina’s appellate system comprises two primary courts:

  • North Carolina Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it reviews decisions from the Court of Appeals and certain direct appeals. The court consists of seven justices who interpret state laws and the constitution.
  • North Carolina Court of Appeals: Serving as the intermediate appellate court, it reviews cases from the trial courts. The court has 15 judges who hear cases in panels of three.

Caseload and Statistics

The North Carolina Court of Appeals manages a substantial caseload annually. For detailed statistics on filed, pending, and disposed cases, refer to the North Carolina Judicial Branch Data and Statistics.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in North Carolina are governed by the North Carolina Rules of Appellate Procedure. These rules outline procedures for filing appeals, including timelines, formatting requirements for briefs, and guidelines for oral arguments. Adherence to these rules is essential for the successful progression of an appeal.

Process for Appealing a Case

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the clerk of the trial court within the prescribed timeframe after the judgment or order.
  2. Preparation of the Record: Compile the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, to be submitted to the appellate court.
  3. Briefs: The appellant submits an initial brief outlining legal arguments and alleged errors in the trial court’s decision. The appellee responds with their brief, and the appellant may file a reply brief if necessary.
  4. Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer judges’ questions.
  5. Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.

High-Profile Cases

North Carolina’s appellate courts have presided over several notable cases. For detailed information on specific high-profile cases, consulting legal databases and news archives is recommended.

Contact Information

North Carolina Supreme Court

North Carolina Court of Appeals

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the appellate process in North Carolina. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that your case is presented with the utmost precision and expertise.