Appeal Lawyers in Vancouver
If you believe a legal error affected the outcome of your case, you may have the right to appeal. McKechnie & Company represents clients in civil and commercial appeals across British Columbia, including matters before the BC Court of Appeal.
Appeals are not a re-trial of the case. They focus on whether the law was applied correctly, whether the process was fair, and whether the decision can withstand appellate review. Our Vancouver appeal lawyers provide clear, practical advice on whether an appeal is viable and worth pursuing.
When an Appeal May Be Appropriate
An unfavourable result alone is not enough to justify an appeal. Appeals are based on identifiable legal or procedural errors that affected the outcome.
These may include:
- Errors in the application or interpretation of the law
- Reliance on inadmissible evidence
- Findings of fact unsupported by the record
- Procedural unfairness or jurisdictional errors
We review trial decisions carefully and advise clients on timing, cost, and likelihood of success. Appeal deadlines are strict, so early legal advice is essential.
How We Handle Civil and Commercial Appeals
Appellate advocacy requires a different approach than trial litigation. Our appellate work is focused, detail-driven, and tailored to the standards applied by appellate courts in British Columbia.
Our appellate services include:
- Appeal strategy and merits assessments
- Drafting notices of appeal and factums
- Written and oral advocacy before appellate courts
Appeals We Handle
We represent clients in appeals arising from a range of civil and commercial matters, including:
- Construction litigation and builders liens
- Debt collection and debtor creditor matters
- Real property, real estate and land disputes
- Contract and commercial litigation
The Best Vancouver Appellate Lawyers
Appeals demand precision, clarity, and disciplined legal analysis. We provide practical appellate representation with an emphasis on efficiency, professionalism and realistic outcomes.
If you are considering an appeal in Vancouver or elsewhere in British Columbia, contact McKechnie & Company to discuss your options with experienced appeal lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I appeal just because I lost my case?
No. A poor result alone is not grounds for an appeal. Appeals must be based on errors of law, serious procedural issues, or flaws that affected the fairness or outcome of the decision.
How long do I have to file an appeal in British Columbia?
Appeal deadlines are strict and vary depending on the court and type of decision. Missing a deadline can eliminate your right to appeal, so legal advice should be sought promptly.
Do you handle appeal book preparation in Vancouver?
Yes. As part of our appellate representation, we prepare the appeal book and court record in accordance with British Columbia appellate rules. Appellate courts rely on this record when deciding an appeal.
What is an appeal book?
An appeal book is the official record reviewed by the appellate court. It typically includes pleadings, orders, exhibits, transcripts, and the reasons for judgment required under the applicable court rules.
Does an appeal involve a new trial or new evidence?
Generally, no. Appeals are decided based on the existing record. New evidence is rarely permitted and only in limited circumstances.
What is the appeal process in B.C.?
In British Columbia, most civil and commercial appeals are heard by the British Columbia Court of Appeal. The process typically begins with filing a Notice of Appeal within strict time limits set by the court rules.
After the notice is filed, the parties prepare an appeal book and written arguments, called factums, outlining the legal errors being challenged. The Court then schedules an appeal hearing, where lawyers present oral submissions based on the written record. Appeals focus on whether the law was applied correctly or whether a legal or procedural error affected the outcome, not on re-trying the case.