An appeal can provide a path to vindication for litigants who were deprived of a just result at trial, and it can create a risk of reversal for those who prevailed. Successful navigation of the appellate process requires a unique set of competencies and specialized knowledge. The keys to victory on appeal include crisp and persuasive writing, finely tuned analytical ability, and strong and confident oral advocacy. At Engelman Berger, P.C., a leading appeals firm in Arizona, our attorneys brief and argue matters in state and federal appellate courts across a wide range of issues, including bankruptcies, creditors’ rights, contract disputes, water law, municipal law, constitutional law, business disputes, and real estate controversies. We collaborate with trial counsel, including lawyers from other firms, to craft the most effective presentation of facts and legal arguments for the appellate court.
Arizona Appellate Experience and Admissions
We are admitted to, and have briefed and argued in, the following courts:
- United States Supreme Court
- Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
- Ninth Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel
- Arizona Supreme Court
- Arizona Court of Appeals
- U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona
Representative Appellate Results From Our Appeals Firm in Arizona
Compass Bank v. Bennett, 375 P.3d 950 (Ariz. App. 2016)
Affirmed judgment on a non-purchase-money home equity loan. The appellate court agreed that Arizona law does not require a lender to waive its deed of trust as a condition to filing suit on a promissory note.
Arizona Bank & Trust v. James R. Barrons Trust, 237 Ariz. 401 (App. 2015)
In a matter of first impression, obtained an opinion holding that a guarantor of a loan secured by residential property qualifying for anti-deficiency protection may prospectively waive that statutory protection. The firm’s advocacy on appeal preserved a substantial deficiency judgment.
Congrejo Investments v. Mann (In re Bender), 586 F.3d 1159 (9th Cir. 2009)
Secured dismissal of a premature interlocutory appeal. On remand, obtained a judgment for the Chapter 7 trustee avoiding an unauthorized post-petition transfer of a multi-million-dollar property, with the U.S. Supreme Court later denying certiorari.
Maricopa-Stanfield Irr. & Drainage Dist. v. Robertson, 211 Ariz. 485 (2005)
As amicus curiae for multiple Arizona cities, successfully advocated for reversal of partial summary judgment regarding claimed vested rights to certain irrigation water from the Central Arizona Project.
Why Choose Our Appeals Firm in Arizona
- Focused appellate skill set: Brief writing, record mastery, issue selection, and oral argument tailored to appellate judges.
- Strategic collaboration: We partner with trial counsel to refine the record and arguments for appellate review.
- Broad subject-matter range: Commercial disputes, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, constitutional questions, municipal and water issues, and real estate.
- Arizona insight: Deep familiarity with Arizona appellate rules, timelines, standards of review, and preservation requirements.
How We Work With Trial Counsel
- Briefing plans, mock questioning, and oral argument preparation
- Early assessment of appealability and deadlines
- Identification and preservation of appellate issues
- Post-trial motion strategy and record perfection
Frequently Asked Questions about Appeals Firms in Arizona
It evaluates trial outcomes, identifies appealable issues, prepares and files briefs, manages the record on appeal, and argues before appellate courts in Arizona and federal circuits.
Timing varies by court and case complexity. Schedules are set by rule and by court orders. We map deadlines and provide a clear timeline after reviewing the record.
Yes. We often work side by side with trial counsel to ensure continuity and effective advocacy.
Legal errors, evidentiary rulings, jury instructions, constitutional issues, and questions of law reviewed de novo.