Appellate advocacy turns on the record, the standard of review, and the quality of the briefing — skills that transfer across subject matter. For that reason, the firm's appellate docket extends beyond its core practice areas where the appellate issues warrant it.
How prospective appeals are evaluated
- The consultation is issue-focused. After conflicts clearance and acceptance of the appointment, the firm may request the judgment or selected filings for advance review. The consultation addresses preservation, the applicable standard of review, and realistic prospects based on the information available.
- Engagements are quoted case by case. A responsible appellate quote requires review of the order, record size, deadlines, preservation, and the strength of the issues.
- Appellee-side representation. Defending a favorable judgment is its own discipline, and frequently presents the stronger position.
Trial litigation
The firm litigates in Georgia's state courts and in the Northern and Middle Districts of Georgia — including business and partner disputes, homeowner-side association matters, trademark enforcement, and selected cross-border disputes. Litigation engagements ordinarily begin with a $5,000 or greater advance, with an evergreen trust balance and itemized monthly billing.
On settlement: in the firm's judgment, most disputes are resolved most efficiently short of trial. Where settlement or mediation serves the client better than continued litigation, the client will hear that recommendation — supported by the numbers — regardless of its effect on the firm's fees.