Who files the appellant's brief in an appeal?

In an appeal, the party who initiates the appeal is known as the appellant. It is the appellant's responsibility to file the appellant's brief. This brief outlines the legal arguments and points of law that the appellant believes justify reversing or modifying the lower court's decision. The purpose of the brief is to set forth the grounds for the appeal, supporting it with legal citations and factual details.

The process is designed to ensure that the appellate court has all the necessary information and arguments from the appellant's perspective. Filing the brief is a critical step in the appellate process, as it allows the court to understand the appellant's position and the rationale behind their appeal.

In contrast, the other parties involved in the appeal have different roles. The lower court does not file anything in the appeal; rather, it provides the record and any related documentation requested by the appellate court. The respondent, who is typically the party opposing the appeal, will file their own brief after the appellant's brief, presenting arguments to uphold the lower court's decision. Lastly, the jury does not participate in the appeal process as their role is limited to the trial phase. Their decisions are not re-evaluated in the appellate context.