Keen insight to shape the law

Reach & Depth

Appellate litigation carries high stakes because it is a zero-sum game. In most instances, the process begins with one side already declared the winner. Perhaps the trial court has dismissed a plaintiff’s complaint or entered judgment on a significant jury verdict in the plaintiff’s favor. Or perhaps the client achieved a defense verdict in a high stakes trial that plaintiff intends to aggressively attack. In each case, one side seeks to fight another day by convincing an appellate court that the trial judge erred in applying the law, while the other defends the status quo.

Appellate advocacy differs from trial advocacy in its focus on applying the law to the evidentiary record under the applicable standard of review. In many instances, that requires seeking a clarification or change to existing law. Persuasive legal writing and oral advocacy are paramount to meeting that challenge.

FMG puts appellate practice on equal footing with trial. We recognize the unique skill set required to protect our clients’ interests both before and when their cases reach the appellate courts. Far from an afterthought, our understanding of appellate procedure underlies our resolution strategy, and our clients value the perspective our experienced practitioners bring to every stage in the arc of the case.

FMG’s seasoned team of appellate lawyers understands how to effectively advocate for our clients in state and federal appellate courts throughout the country, as well as the Supreme Court of the United States. We bring experience and expertise across a broad range of substantive areas, including torts, government, state and federal constitutional issues, employment, insurance coverage, commercial disputes, construction, financial services, and healthcare.

Click the categories below to view notable matters handled by FMG appellate attorneys.

• Supreme Court of the United States
• Federal Circuit Courts
• State Appellate Courts