- An appellate lawyer handles appeals after the case has gone to trial.
- Good appellate lawyers study the trial record. They understand the trial rules and the rules for appeal.
- Working with the trial attorney and the client, a good appellate lawyer presents the facts in the way that is most advantageous to the client through the appeals process.
- A good appellate lawyer knows how to present those cases in writing in a forceful and effective manner and also to argue those cases to the appeal tribunal.