Plain-English Definition
Asking a higher court to review and change a lower court's decision. You must file an appeal within a strict deadline after the judgment.
Legal Meaning
A proceeding in which a higher court reviews the decision of a lower court. Appeals are based on errors of law, not re-litigation of facts. Appellate deadlines are strict and jurisdictional — missing them can permanently bar review.
Etymology Review
From Latin appellare, meaning “to address, call upon, or appeal to.” An appeal calls on a higher authority to review a decision.
Misuse Warning
An appeal is not a new trial. You generally cannot present new evidence. Appeals focus on whether the lower court made legal errors. Missing the appeal deadline can permanently end your case.
Boundary Note
Lexicon provides general legal and procedural information for educational purposes. It does not provide legal advice, legal representation, legal interpretation for a specific case, strategy, document preparation, or professional judgment. Meanings can vary by jurisdiction, facts, and procedural posture.