All around exceptional attorney
I hired Chris to handle a civil appeal on my behalf following an unsuccessful bench trial I was a party to in Cook County of which involved premises liability and other issues. In working with him closely over the last year and half on my appeal, I can honestly say that he is a terrific writer and legal researcher, and an all around exceptional attorney. I have also appreciated his receptiveness to hearing my input and suggestions when applicable, and he is always diligent in returning emails/phone calls. Frankly, he's gone above and beyond for me in what is a very technical case involving numerous parties and issues up for appeal, and has also willingly appeared on my behalf for post-trial proceedings of which were made even more complicated by errors committed by former trial counsel and even the county clerk's office. Virtually all litigants hope that their case is successful the first time around and can avoid an appellate process, but in those situations where an appeal is inevitable, Chris is exactly the attorney you want to represent you.
— F.M.
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Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

If your business fraud case resulted in an unjust verdict, the appellate process offers an opportunity to challenge that outcome and correct legal mistakes. The Keleher Appellate Law Group in Chicago provides strategic appellate advocacy for individuals and businesses seeking to overturn unfair business fraud or intellectual property infringement decisions in Illinois and federal courts.

What Is Business Fraud in Illinois?

Business fraud refers to deceptive or illegal practices in commercial settings that result in financial or reputational harm to others. These acts can range from embezzlement to accounting manipulation, often requiring skilled legal analysis to uncover and prove during the appeals process.

Common Types of Business Fraud

  • Embezzlement: Misuse of funds entrusted to an employee or fiduciary.
  • Accounting fraud: Falsifying financial statements or concealing losses.
  • Bribery: Offering or accepting something of value to influence a decision.
  • Securities fraud: Deceptive trading, insider information, or stock manipulation.
  • Tax evasion: Intentionally avoiding lawful tax payments.
  • Bankruptcy fraud: Concealing assets or falsifying filings during bankruptcy.
  • Insurance fraud: Submitting false claims or misrepresenting information.
  • Intellectual property fraud: Misappropriation or theft of patents, trademarks, or trade secrets.

Each type of fraud requires careful examination of evidence and procedure to determine whether errors during trial justify an appeal.

How Does the Business Fraud Appeals Process Work?

A business fraud appeal is a formal legal challenge to a lower court’s decision, focusing on whether legal or procedural errors affected the result. The appellate court does not retry the case or hear new evidence but reviews the record for mistakes that may have changed the verdict.

Key Stages in an Appeal

  1. Filing: Submit a notice of appeal within the required timeframe.
  2. Record on appeal: Compile all trial documents, exhibits, and transcripts.
  3. Briefing: Prepare written arguments explaining the legal errors.
  4. Oral argument: Present the appeal before appellate judges.
  5. Decision: The appellate court may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.

Appellate success depends on identifying reversible errors and crafting clear, persuasive legal arguments.

What Makes Business Fraud Appeals So Challenging?

Appeals in business fraud and intellectual property cases are complex due to their financial and procedural intricacies. Unlike trial courts, appellate courts focus solely on how the law was applied, not on the underlying facts or evidence. This requires a deep understanding of appellate procedure, financial documentation, and business law.

Why Are These Appeals Difficult to Win?

  • The burden is on the appellant to prove that trial errors impacted the verdict.
  • No new evidence may be introduced; arguments rely on the existing record.
  • Business and IP cases often involve highly technical or financial subject matter.
  • Success demands precise legal reasoning and detailed written advocacy.

The Keleher Appellate Law Group brings both legal and financial insight to these cases, identifying subtle but crucial issues that can make the difference on appeal.

How an Appellate Attorney Can Help

An appellate attorney’s role is to analyze the trial record, identify legal errors, and present a compelling argument for reversal or modification of the verdict. At The Keleher Appellate Law Group, our approach combines meticulous legal research with practical business understanding.

How Does The Keleher Appellate Law Group Approach These Cases?

  • Comprehensive review of the trial record to uncover appealable errors
  • Strategic, legally sound arguments supported by precedent
  • Tailored appellate briefs written to persuade appellate judges
  • Effective oral advocacy grounded in financial and procedural accuracy
  • Deep knowledge of both Illinois and federal appellate systems

Attorney Christopher Keleher also brings financial acumen to each case, having passed the Illinois CPA exam on the first sitting in 2000. This dual legal and accounting perspective strengthens every business fraud appeal the firm handles.

Why Choose Our Chicago Appellate Law Firm for Business Fraud Appeals?

At Keleher Appellate Law Group, we leverage our extensive experience and knowledge to help clients navigate the complexities of business fraud appeals. Our team is adept at dissecting trial records, identifying pivotal legal errors, and crafting persuasive arguments that resonate with appellate judges. Mr. Keleher is also a CPA, having passed the Illinois Certified Public Accounting exam on the first sitting in 2000.

We understand the procedures of the Illinois and federal appellate court systems, ensuring that our strategies are tailored to the specific procedural and legal standards of each jurisdiction. Our approach is determined by the facts of the case and your unique situation and objectives. Trust us to fully represent your interests and work strategically to achieve the best possible outcome in your business fraud case.

Contact Our Experienced Illinois Business Fraud Appellate Attorney

The Keleher Appellate Law Group delivers exceptional legal representation in business fraud matters, including intellectual property infringement. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can provide strategic, knowledgeable advocacy.

FAQs

What qualifies as business fraud for purposes of appeal?

Business fraud involves intentional deception or misrepresentation that causes financial harm. On appeal, the focus is whether the trial court made legal or procedural errors that affected how the fraud claim was decided.

How long do I have to file a business fraud appeal in Illinois?

In most Illinois civil cases, a notice of appeal must be filed within 30 days of the final judgment. Federal deadlines may differ, so prompt consultation with an appellate attorney is essential.

Can a business fraud appeal include intellectual property issues?

Yes. Many business fraud appeals involve claims of copyright, trademark, or trade secret infringement. These cases require a nuanced understanding of both commercial and IP law at the appellate level.

The Keleher Appellate Group is your premier choice for federal and state business fraud appeals, serving clients in Chicago, Denver, St. Louis, and the surrounding areas in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Colorado.