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APP-001-INFOOptional

Information on Appeal Procedures for Unlimited Civil Cases

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective January 1, 2025

This information sheet explains the general steps for appealing a decision from a trial court in certain types of civil cases. It tells readers what an appeal is and what the process generally involves.

The court describes it as: Explains the steps to begin and complete an appeal of a trial court in an unlimited civil case (generally a case for more than $25,000 or a case from family, juvenile, or probate court). It includes links to online resources to help understand each step in the appeal process.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

Appeal

Stage: Appeal

This sheet is used by any party involved in an unlimited civil case, or certain other types of cases like those in family, probate, or juvenile court, who needs to understand the process of appealing a decision.

Either party may file.

Official instructions

How-to guides published by the court for this form.

Common questions

What is an appeal?
An appeal is asking a higher court to review a decision made by a judge or jury in the lower court. It is not a new trial, so new evidence cannot be presented. Greatly, the appellate court reviews the record of what happened in the trial court.
Who should read this information?
If you are the party asking for the decision to be reviewed, you are the APPELLANT. If you received notice that another party is appealing, you are the RESPONDENT. The sheet has different sections for each role.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal?
No, if you are an individual, you are allowed to represent yourself in an appeal. However, appeals can be complicated, and it is suggested to talk to a lawyer if you have questions.<0xC2><0xA0>

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect January 1, 2025.

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