How much does a civil appeal cost in the US?
Appellate attorney fees commonly run from the low tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars, depending on the record size and complexity, plus transcript and filing costs. Under the American Rule you generally cannot recover these fees from the other side even if you win the appeal.
What is a supersedeas or appeal bond?
A supersedeas bond (appeal bond) is security an appellant posts to stay enforcement of a money judgment while the appeal is pending. Courts typically require a bond of about 100-125% of the judgment to cover the judgment plus interest and costs. Surety companies charge an annual premium, often around 1-2% of the bond amount.
Do I have to pay the other side's attorney fees if I lose an appeal?
Usually not. The American Rule applies on appeal, so each side ordinarily bears its own attorney fees. A prevailing appellee can recover limited statutory costs under FRAP 39 (printing, docket fees). Attorney fees shift only where a contract or fee-shifting statute provides for them, or as a sanction for a frivolous appeal.
What are my odds of winning a civil appeal?
Reversal rates are modest, commonly in the 10-20% range for civil appeals, because appellate courts review factual findings deferentially for clear error and defer to trial-court discretion on many rulings. Appeals succeed most often on pure questions of law reviewed de novo.