There are advantages and disadvantages to both. By using your trial lawyer to handle your appeal, you benefit from the fact that he or she does not have to become familiar with the case, like a new attorney would. Your attorney is also likely to be aware of what errors may have taken place that can serve as the basis for an appeal.
On the other hand, a new attorney can bring a fresh perspective to your case that your existing trial lawyer may not be able to.
Also, if your trial lawyer is not experienced in appeals, it may be important to find one who is. The rules and procedures in appellate courts are different from those in a trial court, and you may benefit from hiring an attorney with the skills and experience of having handled appeals.
If you are considering hiring a new appellate lawyer for an appeal, it is important to do so quickly since the time for filing an appeal is only 30 days.
Douglas N. Kiger, Attorney at Law
Blado Kiger Bolan, Tacoma, Wash.
