For most litigants who receive an adverse decision in their state trial and appellate courts, the last opportunity for relief is in the supreme court. However, unlike the trial and appellate courts, the supreme court is not required to hear your case. Rather, you must request review by filing a ‘Petition for Review.’
A Petition for Review provides an overview of the facts of the case, and the issues for which the petitioner is requesting supreme court review. After you submit a petition for review, the opposing party may submit a response indicating why review is unnecessary. The petitioner may file a reply to this response, however in most jurisdictions, this is not required.
Local statutes will indicate what types of issues are best suited for supreme court review. Often, these are issues that (1) present a significant question of law, (2) demonstrate a need for a new or changed policy, or (3) would help to develop, clarify, or harmonize the law in a particular area.
Importantly, the deadline for a petition for review begins to run when the final order is entered in the court of appeals. In most jurisdictions, this deadline cannot be extended.
To speak with a knowledgeable attorney about your appeal, contact the Alderman law Firm today for your free consultation by calling 720-588-3529 (CO) or 608-620-3529 (WI).