Appellate Litigation

Strategic Advocacy When the Stakes Are Highest

At Fields Howell, our appellate team brings clarity, precision, and tenacity to some of the most complex insurance disputes nationwide. Whether reversing an unfavorable verdict or preserving a hard-won trial court decision, we are trusted with appeals that not only affect the case at hand but often shape broader legal precedent. Our attorneys have argued before the United States Courts of Appeals for the Fourth, Sixth, Eighth, and Eleventh Circuits, as well as appellate courts in Georgia, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and beyond.

A Discipline All Its Own

Appellate litigation is not just another phase of trial—it is a separate and highly specialized practice. Successful appeals require more than familiarity with the facts; they demand sharp issue-spotting, rigorous legal research, and the ability to frame an argument that resonates with a panel of experienced judges. At Fields Howell, we approach every appellate matter with the understanding that persuasive written advocacy is paramount, and that credibility and clarity at oral argument can make all the difference.

We work closely with trial counsel or independently, depending on the client’s needs. In some cases, we are brought in post-verdict to handle appeals that present reputational or financial risk. In others, we monitor cases through trial specifically to prepare for anticipated appellate issues—ensuring a clean record, preserving objections, and building a foundation for appeal from the outset.

Correcting Course. Cementing Victory. Shaping the Law.

We represent insurers and businesses in appeals involving coverage disputes, bad faith allegations, class action certification, contractual interpretation, punitive damages, and jurisdictional challenges. Our team is often tapped to take over complex appeals when the legal or commercial stakes escalate. Whether the goal is to correct an erroneous ruling or defend a favorable result under intense scrutiny, we execute a targeted strategy focused on legal durability and client objectives.

In many of our cases, the rulings at issue go on to guide future litigation across jurisdictions. Fields Howell’s appellate practice contributes to the development of insurance law and reinforces the standards under which insurers operate. Clients turn to us not just for a second chance at victory, but to help define the legal landscape in which they do business.

Results That Stand Up Under Review

We pride ourselves on our reputation for intellectual rigor, clear writing, and practical insight. Our appellate attorneys are known for crafting arguments that cut through complexity and withstand close judicial scrutiny. While no one wins every appeal, our record stands among the best in the field—and we are never deterred by difficulty. When the outcome matters and the window for change is narrow, Fields Howell is ready to deliver focused appellate advocacy that protects what matters most.