Frequently asked questions.

Why chose a law firm that exclusively handles appeals?

If you are looking for a law firm that can handle your case effectively and efficiently, you should consider one that only works on appeals. Appeals are a complex and specialized area of law that require a high level of expertise and experience. A law firm that only works on appeals will have a deep understanding of the appellate process, the relevant legal issues, and the best strategies to present your arguments. A law firm that only works on appeals will also have a track record of success in handling similar cases and achieving favorable outcomes for their clients. By choosing a law firm that only works on appeals, you can ensure that your case will receive the attention and care it deserves.

Where are you located? What geographic regions do you serve?

Decker Law is located in Orange County, but the firm serves clients throughout California. We are able to accommodate clients regardless of their geographic location because (1) the vast majority of the work for an appeal or a writ is research and writing, which can be done from anywhere; and (2) unlike traditional litigation, which requires many court appearances, an appeal requires just one appearance—which often can be done virtually or telephonically. Therefore, whether you are in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or even all the way up in Siskiyou County, Decker Law can help you with your appeal or writ petition.

Do you bill by the hour or by flat fee (fixed cost)?

Lawyers traditionally bill by the hour (in six minute increments, actually). Although this traditional model is certainly available at Decker Law, we do offer clients flat-fee representation, a more client-friendly approach to providing legal services—and one that is more feasible with appeals and writs. Unlike trial court litigation, appeals are relatively predictable with regard to the amount of time that will be spent on a case. This makes a flat-fee arrangement a beneficial proposition for both you and us: You get the benefit of knowing exactly how much you are going to spend, and we get to focus on the case without the distraction of having to routinely send invoices and to track every last minute of time spent.

How much does an appeal cost?

The cost of appellate representation is going to depend on the nature of the appeal—and, specifically, the amount of time it will take to handle the case. An appeal of a motion for preliminary injunction, for example, will take much less time (and cost much less) than an appeal that follows a seven-week trial. The cost of representation, therefore, is based on (i) the amount of anticipated time that the appeal will take (if you’re paying by flat fee), or (ii) the amount of actual time spent (if you’re paying by the hour).

How long does an appeal take?

The appellate process can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. It depends on the case, the court’s docket, and any other number of factors. We tell our clients to not expect any swift resolution with their appeal.

What are my chances of overturning a decision on appeal?

There’s no way around it: obtaining a reversal is an uphill battle. Over the last several years, the California Court of Appeal has reported a reversal rate of approximately 17%. The reversal rates in the Ninth Circuit are typically even lower.

But this is not to say that an appellant should forgo his or her right to appeal simply because the odds appear to be low. If the appeal is viable, and the matter is significant enough to the appellant, pursuing an appeal is an important consideration—certainly given what’s typically at stake in litigation