Appellate Representation in Missouri and Illinois
Appeals are a different practice than trial work. They turn on the record, preserved error, and persuasive written advocacy. Hunsinger Law Group represents clients and trial counsel in appellate matters across Missouri and Illinois, with a particular focus on family law and related civil appeals.
We identify and preserve legal error, craft persuasive briefing, and present clear, strategic oral argument aimed at protecting trial-level wins or correcting unjust outcomes. Clients and trial counsel turn to us when the record is heavy, the issues are nuanced, and the stakes are high.
What We Handle
- Family law appeals — dissolution, custody, maintenance, modification, and relocation
- Post-trial motions and preservation of error
- Civil appeals in related matters
- Consulting and briefing support for trial counsel
- Responses to appeals filed against your trial-court judgment (appellee work)
Our Appellate Process
- Paid consultation — We review the judgment, key issues, and deadlines together.
- Record and order review — We assess preserved error and likely standards of review.
- Scope and fee proposal — You receive a clear retainer estimate before we proceed.
- Briefing — We draft persuasive opening, response, or reply briefs.
- Oral argument — When granted, we present focused, prepared argument.
What to Have Ready
- A copy of the judgment or order you want to appeal
- The date the order was entered
- Any post-trial motion deadlines or notices already filed
- Trial counsel contact information (if different from you)
- A brief description of the issues you believe were decided incorrectly
Fees and Consultation
Most appellate matters begin with a $50 paid consultation, where we walk through the order, key deadlines, and what an appeal would involve. After we review the order and scope, we typically quote a security retainer for record review and briefing — often in the $4,000–$7,500 range depending on the size of the record and complexity — billed hourly against that retainer so you have a clear sense of scope and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to appeal?
Appellate deadlines are short and strictly enforced in both Missouri and Illinois. In most cases you have only a limited window after entry of judgment (or ruling on post-trial motions) to file a notice of appeal. Contact us immediately if you are considering an appeal.
Can you handle an appeal if a different attorney handled the trial?
Yes. We frequently come in after trial to handle the appeal, and we coordinate with trial counsel as needed to understand the record and preserved issues.
Do you handle appeals filed against my judgment?
Yes. We represent appellees defending favorable trial-court rulings, including briefing and oral argument.
Will an appeal stop enforcement of the trial court’s order?
Generally, no. Filing an appeal does not automatically stay enforcement. In some circumstances a stay or supersedeas bond may be available, which we can discuss during your consultation.
Schedule Your Appellate Consultation
Appellate deadlines move quickly. If you are considering an appeal — or defending one — the best next step is to schedule a paid consultation so we can confirm deadlines and options before time runs out.
Schedule Your Appellate Consultation →
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.