The Court of Appeal hears civil appeals from High Court decisions. An appeal checks whether there was an error in the High Court decision, it is not a fresh hearing of the case, so it is usually shorter.
Three judges hear your appeal. They read your papers in advance, so you do not need to read everything out in court. They decide the appeal only on the materials that were before the High Court. New evidence is only allowed in special circumstances, and you must apply at the directions hearing.
Unless there are special reasons, you will appear in court three times: at the directions hearing, at the callover, and at the hearing itself. You will get a decision either on the day (an ex tempore decision) or in writing at a later date.
- Prepare for court
Find out what you need to do before your appeal hearing, including lodging books of appeal, filing motions, and submitting authorities, reports, and testimonials.
- In court
Understand what happens during your appeal hearing, including the directions list, motions, callovers, and how the appeal is heard.
- After court
Learn how to get copies of orders and judgments, contact a registrar, request documents, or appeal a Court of Appeal decision to the Supreme Court.
- Terms & Sittings
Check the official law term dates for the Court of Appeal and other superior courts for the current and previous years.
- Practice directions
Read the rules and directions that govern Court of Appeal civil proceedings, including filing requirements and timelines.
- Offices & contacts
Find contact details for the Court of Appeal Office and other related offices involved in civil appeals.
