Appeals by Either Party
Representation for the party bringing an appeal or responding to one.
Massachusetts Family Law Appeals
Experienced appellate counsel for family law judgments.
When a Probate and Family Court judgment may contain legal error, an appeal requires a different set of skills than trial. Caldeira Law, P.C. handles family law appeals throughout Massachusetts, drawing on experience as a former law clerk to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
More than 25 years of family law experience. Practical advice. Careful preparation. Personal representation.
25+ Years ExperienceFormer SJC Law ClerkGuardian ad LitemAdjunct Professor
Understanding appeals
An appeal is not a second trial.
An appeal asks a higher court to review whether the trial court made a legal error or abused its discretion. The appellate court generally reviews the existing record, meaning the transcripts, exhibits, and filings from the trial court, rather than hearing new testimony or evidence.
Family law appeals from the Probate and Family Court are generally heard by the Massachusetts Appeals Court, and in some cases by the Supreme Judicial Court.
Deadlines in appellate practice are short and strict. A notice of appeal is often due within 30 days after a judgment enters, so prompt review matters.
Start with clarity
An appellate consultation can help you understand:
- Whether there are viable issues for appeal
- Deadlines that may apply to your case
- What the record contains, and what it lacks
- The likely timeline and process
- Alternatives to an appeal
Appellate representation
Appellate matters Caldeira Law handles.
Appellate work requires careful analysis of the record and persuasive legal writing.
Issue Evaluation
Candid assessment of whether there are strong legal issues worth pursuing.
Appellate Briefs
Research and writing focused on clear, persuasive legal arguments.
Oral Argument
Preparation and presentation of argument before the appellate court.
Trial Counsel Consultation
Working with trial attorneys on issue preservation and appellate strategy.
Post-Appeal Proceedings
Guidance on what happens after an appellate decision.
Recently received a judgment?
Appellate deadlines are short. Do not wait.
A prompt consultation can help you understand whether an appeal may be worth pursuing and what deadlines may apply.
Experience matters
More than 25 years of family law experience.
Attorney Charlene A. Caldeira brings more than 25 years of experience representing clients in Massachusetts family law matters. Her background includes service as a law clerk to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, court-appointed work, teaching, and continuing legal education.
That depth of experience informs how Caldeira Law approaches appellate work: understanding the law, identifying practical solutions, and preparing carefully for every stage of the matter.
Meet Charlene CaldeiraThe process
What an appeal can look like.
Every case is different. Understanding the general stages can make an unfamiliar process more manageable.
Notice of Appeal
Filing a timely notice of appeal in the trial court.
The Record
Assembling the transcripts, exhibits, and documents the appellate court will review.
Briefing
Submitting written legal arguments, followed by the other party's response.
Decision
Oral argument, when scheduled, followed by the appellate court's decision.
Hingham & the South Shore
Representation close to home.
Caldeira Law is based in Hingham and represents family law clients throughout the South Shore and Massachusetts, including individuals from Cohasset, Scituate, Norwell, Hanover, Weymouth, Quincy, Braintree, Milton, Hull, Marshfield, Duxbury, Pembroke, and surrounding communities.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions.
How long do I have to appeal?
Appellate deadlines are short. In many cases a notice of appeal must be filed within 30 days after the judgment enters. Because deadlines vary, it is important to seek advice promptly.
Can I present new evidence on appeal?
Generally no. The appellate court reviews the existing record from the trial court rather than hearing new testimony or evidence.
Which court hears family law appeals?
Appeals from the Probate and Family Court are generally heard by the Massachusetts Appeals Court. The Supreme Judicial Court may hear some cases.
How long does an appeal take?
Appeals often take many months from start to finish, depending on the record, briefing schedule, and court calendar.
Do I need a different lawyer for an appeal?
Not necessarily, but appellate practice involves different skills than trial work. Some clients engage appellate counsel, and some trial attorneys consult with appellate counsel on strategy.
This information is general and is not legal advice. Every situation is different.
Your next step
Start with a conversation.
If you have received a judgment you believe may be wrong, or you are facing an appeal, a prompt conversation can help you understand your options and the deadlines that may apply.
Caldeira Law, P.C. · 99 Derby Street, Suite 200 · Hingham, MA 02043