Homepage Official West Virginia Appeal Template in PDF

Key takeaways

  • Ensure you use the West Virginia Appeal form only for appeals from a final judgment of a Circuit Court. This specificity is crucial for the form's validity.

  • Complete the case title and numbers accurately, including all party designations. If needed, use an extra sheet to provide comprehensive details.

  • List all petitioners and respondents, including their contact information. This includes names, firm names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. Self-represented parties should also provide their contact details.

  • Be aware of the timeline. You must include the date of entry of judgment and any post-trial motions. This information is essential for the court's records.

  • For abuse and neglect cases, provide detailed information about minor children involved, including their names, ages, and current parental rights status.

  • Indicate whether the order being appealed is a final decision on all issues. If it isn’t, include a brief explanation of why the court should still consider it.

  • Don’t forget to attach all necessary documents, including any orders from the lower court and the statutory docket fee. This step is vital to avoid delays in processing your appeal.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the West Virginia Appeal form can lead to confusion and errors in the appeal process. Here are four common misconceptions:

  • Only attorneys can file an appeal. Many believe that only licensed attorneys can complete and submit the appeal form. However, self-represented parties can also file an appeal. They must provide their contact information, including an address and phone number.
  • All appeals require a transcript. Some individuals think that a transcript of the trial proceedings is always necessary for an appeal. This is not true. The appeal form allows you to indicate whether a transcript is needed. If it is not necessary, you can simply mark "NO."
  • The appeal form is the only document needed. A common misunderstanding is that submitting the appeal form alone suffices. In reality, the form requires several attachments, including copies of orders being appealed and a statement of the nature of the case. Failing to include these documents can jeopardize the appeal.
  • The statutory docket fee applies to all cases. Many assume that the $200 docket fee applies universally. However, this fee does not apply to criminal appeals, appeals from the Worker's Compensation Board of Review, or original jurisdiction actions. Be sure to check if your case qualifies for a fee waiver.

Similar forms

The West Virginia Notice of Appeal form shares similarities with the federal Notice of Appeal form. Both documents serve the primary purpose of notifying the court and the opposing party of a party's intention to appeal a decision. Each form requires essential information, such as case titles, parties involved, and the specific decisions being appealed. Additionally, both forms necessitate the inclusion of any relevant attachments that support the appeal, ensuring that the court has all necessary documentation to consider the case effectively.

Another comparable document is the Appellate Brief. Like the Notice of Appeal, the Appellate Brief outlines the arguments and legal basis for the appeal. However, while the Notice of Appeal is primarily a notification tool, the Appellate Brief delves deeper into the legal arguments, presenting case law and statutes that support the appellant's position. Both documents are crucial in the appellate process, as they guide the court in understanding the issues at hand.

The Motion for Extension of Time is also similar in that it is filed in the context of appeals. This document requests additional time to complete the appeal process, often due to unforeseen circumstances. Like the Notice of Appeal, it must include specific details about the case and reasons for the extension. Both documents require adherence to strict deadlines and procedural rules to ensure the appeal remains valid.

The Petition for Writ of Certiorari is another related document. This petition requests a higher court to review a lower court's decision, similar to how an appeal seeks to overturn a ruling. Both documents require the petitioner to explain why the case merits further review. The key difference lies in the context; a writ is often sought when an appeal is not an option, yet the petitioner believes there are significant legal questions to address.

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The Statement of Issues on Appeal is also akin to the Notice of Appeal. This document outlines the specific issues that the appellant wishes to address in the appellate court. While the Notice of Appeal serves as a formal declaration of intent, the Statement of Issues provides a more detailed focus on the legal questions at stake. Both documents work together to clarify the scope of the appeal for the court.

Lastly, the Record on Appeal is a critical document that parallels the Notice of Appeal. This record contains all the documents, evidence, and transcripts from the lower court proceedings. Just as the Notice of Appeal outlines the intent to appeal, the Record on Appeal provides the necessary background and context for the appellate court to review the case. Both documents are essential for a thorough understanding of the appeal and its basis.

Key Facts about West Virginia Appeal

What is the purpose of the West Virginia Appeal form?

The West Virginia Appeal form is specifically designed for individuals seeking to appeal a final judgment from a Circuit Court. This form serves as a formal notice to the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia that a party intends to challenge the decision made in the lower court. It requires detailed information about the case, including the case title, parties involved, and the nature of the appeal. By completing this form, appellants provide the court with the necessary information to process their appeal efficiently.

What information must be included in the West Virginia Appeal form?

When filling out the West Virginia Appeal form, several key pieces of information are required. First, you need to provide the complete case title and case numbers from the Circuit Court. Additionally, the county from which you are appealing and the name of the judge(s) who made the decision must be included. You will also list all parties involved in the appeal, including petitioners and respondents, along with their contact information. Other important details include the date of entry of judgment, whether the case has been previously appealed, and any related cases currently pending. It is crucial to attach copies of all relevant orders being appealed, as well as any necessary supporting documents.

How do I know if my appeal is valid under West Virginia law?

To determine if your appeal is valid, you must confirm that the order or judgment you are appealing is a final decision on all issues and all parties involved. If it is not, you will need to indicate whether it was entered under Rule 54(b) of the West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure, which allows for certain judgments to be considered final. If you answer "no" to both questions, you must provide a brief explanation as to why the order is appropriate for appeal. This ensures that the court can properly assess the validity of your appeal and whether it meets the necessary legal criteria.

What happens after I submit the West Virginia Appeal form?

Once you submit the West Virginia Appeal form, along with all required attachments, the Supreme Court of Appeals will review your submission. It is important to ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as this can affect the progress of your appeal. The court will then determine whether to accept your appeal for consideration. If your appeal is accepted, you may need to prepare for further proceedings, which could involve presenting your case in front of the court. Additionally, you must ensure that any necessary transcripts of court proceedings are requested and arranged for, as they may be critical to your appeal.

Preview - West Virginia Appeal Form

SUPREME COURT OF APPEALS OF WEST VIRGINIA

NOTICE OF APPEAL

Use this form only for an appeal from a final judgment of a Circuit Court.

ATTACH COPIES OF ALL ORDERS BEING APPEALED

1.COMPLETE CASE TITLE AND CASE NUMBERS IN CIRCUIT COURT

(Include all party designations, such as plaintiff, intervenor, etc. Use an extra sheet if necessary.)

2.COUNTY APPEALED FROM AND NAME OF JUDGE(S) WHO ISSUED DECISION(S)

(If the presiding judge was appointed by special assignment, include an explanation of the circumstances on an extra sheet.)

3.PETITIONER(S) (List all parties who join in the petition for appeal and provide the name, firm name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of counsel of record for each party. Self-represented parties must provide an address and telephone number.)

4.RESPONDENT(S) (List all parties against whom the appeal is taken and provide the name, firm name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of counsel of record for each party. Self-represented parties must provide an address and telephone number.)

5.NON-PARTICIPANT(S) (List any parties to the lower court action that will not be involved in the appeal and provide the name, firm name, address, telephone number and e-mail address of counsel of record for each non- participant. Provide the name, address and telephone number of any self-represented litigant who was a party to the lower court action but is not participating in the appeal.)

Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Notice of Appeal; Rev. 08/26/2020

Page 1 of 5

SHORT CASE NAME:

6.

 

Date of Entry of Judgment:

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Date of Entry of Judgment on Post-Trial Motions, if any:

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

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(2)

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(3)

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7.

CRIMINAL CASES:

 

 

 

Bail Status:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Defendant's Sentence:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.ABUSE AND NEGLECT CASES: On an extra sheet, provide a list of the names, ages, and parent's names of all minor children, a brief description of the current status of the parental rights of each parent as of the filing of the notice of appeal, a description of the proposed permanent placement of each child, and the name of each guardian AD LITEM appointed in the case.

9.

Is the order or judgment appealed a final decision on the merits as to all issues and all parties?

YES /

NO

 

If your answer is no, was the order or judgment entered pursuant to R. Civ. P. 54(b)?

YES /

NO

 

If your answer is no, you must attach a brief explanation as to why the order or judgment being appealed is proper

 

for the Court to consider.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.

Has this case previously been appealed?

YES /

NO

 

 

 

If yes, provide the case name, docket number and disposition of each prior appeal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

Are there any related cases currently pending in the Supreme Court or in a lower tribunal?

YES /

NO

 

If yes, cite the case, provide the status, and provide a description of how it is related.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

Is any part of the case confidential?

YES /

NO

 

 

If yes, identify which part and provide specific authority for confidentiality.

13.If an appealing party is a corporation, an extra sheet must list the names of parent corporations and the name of any public company that owns ten percent or more of the corporation's stock. If this section is not applicable to the appealing party, please so indicate below.

The corporation who is a party to this appeal does not have a parent corporation and no publicly held company owns ten percent or more of the corporation's stock.

Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Notice of Appeal; Rev. 08/26/2020

Page 2 of 5

YES /

SHORT CASE NAME:

14. Do you know of any reason why one or more of the Supreme Court Justices should be disqualified from this case?

NO If yes, set forth the basis on an extra sheet. Providing the information required in this section does not relieve a party from the obligation to file a motion for disqualification in accordance with Rule 33.

15.Is a transcript of proceedings necessary for the Court to fairly consider the assignments of error in the case?

YES / NO If yes, you must complete the appellate transcript request form on page 5.

16.NATURE OF CASE, RELIEF SOUGHT, and OUTCOME BELOW (Limit to two double-spaced pages; please attach.)

17.ASSIGNMENTS OF ERROR

Express the assignments in the terms and circumstances of the case, but without unnecessary detail. Separately number each assignment of error and for each assignment:

(1)state the issue;

(2)provide a succinct statement as to why the Court should review the issue.

Limit to eight pages double-spaced; please attach.

18.ATTACHMENTS

Attach to this notice of appeal the following documents in order:

(1)extra sheets containing supplemental information in response to sections 1 - 14 of this form;

(2)a double-spaced statement of the nature of the case, not to exceed two pages, as material required by section 16 of this form;

(3)a double-spaced statement of the assignments of error not to exceed eight pages as required by section 17 of this form;

(4)a copy of the lower court's decision or order from which you are appealing;

(5)a copy of any order deciding a timely post-trial motion; and

(6)a copy of any order extending the time period for appeal.

(7)the statutory docket fee of $200 payable by cash, money order, or check or a copy of the lower court's granting of the application for fee waiver in this case. All checks must be made to the order of the State of West Virginia. The statutory docket fee does not apply to criminal appeals, appeals from the Worker's Compensation Board of Review, or original jurisdiction actions.

NOTICE:

You must file a separate affidavit and application anytime your financial situation no longer meets the official guidelines or anytime the court orders you to do so.

Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Notice of Appeal; Rev. 08/26/2020

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SHORT CASE NAME:

CERTIFICATIONS

STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA

I hereby certify that I have performed a review of the case that is reasonable under the circumstances and that the contents of the Notice of Appeal are accurate and complete.

/

/

___________________________________________________

Date

 

Counsel of record or unrepresented party

I hereby certify that on or before the date below, copies of this notice of appeal and attachments were served on all parties to the case, and copies were provided to the clerk of the circuit court from which the appeal is taken and to each court reporter from whom a transcript is requested.

/

/

___________________________________________________

Date

 

Counsel of record or unrepresented party

Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Notice of Appeal; Rev. 08/26/2020

Page 4 of 5

SHORT CASE NAME:

SUPREME COURT OF APPEALS OF WEST VIRGINIA

APPELLATE TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORM

INSTRUCTIONS

(1)If a transcript is necessary for your appeal, you must complete this form and make appropriate financial arrangements with each court reporter from whom a transcript is requested.

(2)Specify each portion of the proceedings that must be transcribed for purposes of appeal. SEE Rule of Appellate Procedure 9(a).

(3)A separate request form must be completed for each court reporter from whom a transcript is requested. If you are unsure of the court reporter(s) involved, contact the circuit clerk's office for that information.

(4)Failure to make timely and satisfactory arrangements for transcript production, including necessary financial arrangements, may result in denial of motions for extension of the appeal period, or may result in dismissal of the appeal for failure to prosecute.

Name of Court Reporter, ERO, or Typist:

Address of Court Reporter:

Civil Action No.:

 

 

 

 

 

County:

 

 

 

Date of Final Order:

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Date of Proceeding

 

Type of Proceeding

Length of Proceeding

Name of Judge(s)

Portions Previously

 

Prepared

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CERTIFICATIONS

I hereby certify that the transcripts requested herein are necessary for a fair consideration of the issues set forth in the Notice of Appeal.

I hereby further certify that I have contacted the court reporter and satisfactory financial arrangements for payment of the transcript have been made as follows:

Private funds. (Deposit of $enclosed with court reporter's copy. Attach documentation.)

Criminal or habeas corpus appeal with fee waiver (Attach order appointing counsel or order providing fee waiver eligibility. )

Abuse and neglect or delinquency appeal with fee waiver (Attach order appointing counsel.)

Advance payment waived by court reporter (Attach documentation.)

_________________________________________

______________________________________________

Date mailed to court reporter

Counsel of record or unrepresented party

Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Appellate Transcript Request Form; Rev. 08/26/2020

Page 5 of 5

Documents used along the form

When filing an appeal in West Virginia, it's important to have all the necessary documents ready. Along with the West Virginia Appeal form, there are several other forms that can help support your case. Here are a few key documents you may need:

  • Appellate Transcript Request Form: This form is used to request a transcript of the proceedings from the lower court. If the appeal relies on specific parts of the trial, this form ensures that those sections are transcribed. It’s essential for presenting your case effectively.
  • Motion for Extension of Time: If you need more time to file your appeal or any related documents, this motion requests an extension. It must explain why the additional time is necessary and should be filed promptly to avoid complications.
  • Notice to Quit Form: For landlords addressing tenancy issues, the important Notice to Quit form details provide a formal means to notify tenants of lease violations.
  • Affidavit of Indigency: If you cannot afford the filing fees, this affidavit demonstrates your financial situation. It requests a waiver of the fees associated with the appeal process. Be sure to include any supporting documentation that proves your financial need.
  • Notice of Appeal: This is a formal document that informs the court and other parties that you are appealing a decision. It outlines the case details and the specific judgments you are challenging, setting the stage for the appeal process.

Having these documents prepared can streamline your appeal process. Each serves a specific purpose and ensures that your case is presented clearly and effectively. Stay organized and keep track of all required paperwork to enhance your chances of a successful appeal.