Yes, it may be possible to appeal a personal injury verdict if legal errors, procedural mistakes, or misconduct affected the outcome of your case. An appeal asks a higher court to review what happened at trial, not to hear the case all over again.
An Atlanta personal injury lawyer at Fox Injury Law can help you understand whether an appeal makes sense in your situation and whether the strict deadlines apply to your case.
When can I appeal a personal injury verdict?
You can typically appeal a personal injury verdict after the trial has ended and the court has issued a final decision. Appeals focus on whether something went wrong during the legal process, not whether the judge or jury believed the wrong side.
Common reasons people appeal a personal injury verdict include:
- Legal errors, such as incorrect rulings or jury instructions
- Procedural mistakes, misconduct, or abuse of discretion during the trial
Not every unfavorable outcome can be appealed. A personal injury attorney can review the trial record and explain whether your concerns raise valid legal issues under Georgia law.
What does appealing a verdict actually mean?
As one of the later stages of a personal injury claim, appealing a verdict means asking an appellate court to review the lower court’s decision for legal mistakes. The higher court does not hear new testimony or consider new evidence.
Instead, the appellate court reviews written arguments, court records, and transcripts to decide whether errors affected the outcome of the personal injury case. This review process focuses on fairness and proper application of the law.
What is the process for appealing a personal injury verdict?
The appeal process begins by filing a formal notice of appeal with the court. This document starts the review and preserves your right to challenge the verdict.
From there, both sides submit written arguments explaining their positions. The higher court reviews those filings along with the trial record before issuing a decision. In Georgia, personal injury appeals are usually reviewed by the Georgia Court of Appeals.
Strict filing deadlines apply, and appeals have to focus on legal or procedural errors rather than disagreements with the jury’s factual findings. Since these rules are technical and unforgiving, it’s important to review your options with a lawyer as early as possible.
What decisions can a higher court make on appeal?
After reviewing the appeal, the higher court may reach different conclusions that affect your case. The court may uphold the original verdict, find legal errors and reverse the decision, or send the case back to the lower court for further proceedings.
Each outcome carries different consequences for a personal injury claim. A lawyer can explain what each possible result means for your next steps.
Does appealing a verdict mean I will receive compensation?
No. Filing an appeal doesn’t guarantee compensation or a new trial. An appeal only addresses whether legal errors affected the verdict.
If the appellate court finds major errors, it might order further action that could reopen parts of the case. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand realistic expectations based on the facts and procedural history of your case.
Should I speak with a lawyer before filing an appeal?
Yes. Personal injury appeals involve strict deadlines and detailed legal standards. Missing a filing requirement can end your ability to challenge the verdict.
Speaking with a personal injury attorney early is helpful and can help you understand whether an appeal is appropriate and how to protect your rights under Georgia law.
Talk to Fox Injury Law about appealing a personal injury verdict
An unfavorable verdict can feel overwhelming, especially when you believe mistakes affected the outcome. Fox Injury Law helps clients understand whether an appeal is possible and what options may be available moving forward.
To discuss your situation, schedule a free consultation or call (404) 777-7778 to speak with our team.
