Business office interior

The Keleher Appellate Law Group has a track record of successful business fraud appeals in the Illinois and federal appellate courts. Our skills are honed by years of experience and a deep understanding of the contemporary legal landscape, allowing us to handle the complexities that business fraud and intellectual property infringement cases present. 

When you partner with us, you can expect exceptional legal representation and strategic insight. We protect your rights with unwavering commitment and proficiency. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

What Is Business Fraud?

Business fraud concerns deceptive practices and illegal activities undertaken by an individual or a company in a business setting. These acts give an unfair advantage to the perpetrators, often causing financial or reputational ruin to victims. Recognizing the different types of business fraud is essential for developing effective legal strategies, especially in the context of appeals:

  • Embezzlement – misappropriation of funds by someone entrusted with their management.
  • Accounting fraud – manipulation or falsification of accounting records to present a false financial state.
  • Bribery – offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to influence a business decision.
  • Securities fraud – deceptive practices in the stock or commodities markets, including insider trading.
  • Tax evasion – illegally avoiding paying taxes due.
  • Bankruptcy fraud – concealing assets or other deceitful actions to manipulate the bankruptcy process.
  • Insurance fraud – falsifying claims or providing false information to insurance companies.
  • Intellectual property fraud – infringement or theft of patents, copyrights, trademarks, or trade secrets.

It is important to analyze the specific type of business fraud involved to tailor the proper legal approach. This requires a deep dive into the intricacies of the case, examining evidence, and understanding how the fraud was perpetrated. At Keleher Appellate Law Group, we leverage our skills and experience to provide our clients with informed and strategic representation.

Appeals In Business Fraud Cases

A business fraud appeal is not a retrial or a chance to present new evidence. Instead, it is an opportunity to challenge how the judge applied the law or conducted the trial. The appellate court reviews the lower court proceedings to determine if any errors significantly affected the outcome. 

This process requires examining trial records, including transcripts, evidence, and the arguments presented. The stages of business fraud and intellectual property infringement appeals include:

  • Filing – submitting a formal notice of appeal to initiate the appellate process.
  • Record on appeal – compiling the trial record, including all documents, evidence, and transcripts from the lower court.
  • Appellate briefs – preparing and submitting written arguments detailing the legal errors in the trial and the basis for the appeal.
  • Oral arguments – presenting the case to the appellate judges and responding to their questions to clarify points of law and fact.
  • Decision – the appellate court issues a written decision, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case back to the lower court.

At Keleher Appellate Law Group, our approach involves a comprehensive analysis of the trial proceedings to identify any legal missteps or oversights. We then craft persuasive appellate briefs and deliver compelling oral arguments, aimed at demonstrating to the appellate judges why a decision should be reconsidered. 

Challenges In Business Fraud and Intellectual Property Infringement Appeals

Business fraud and Intellectual Property infringement appeals present a unique set of challenges, requiring a high level of skill and strategic acumen. A primary challenge is that business fraud often involves complex financial transactions and nuanced legal principles. Additionally, the burden of demonstrating that a legal error significantly impacted the trial’s outcome rests with the appellant, a task that demands a thorough and critical analysis of the trial record. This process is further complicated by the limitations on introducing new evidence in the appeal, necessitating a strong reliance on the existing trial record to build a compelling case.

Moreover, the complex nature of business fraud means that errors can be subtle yet impactful, requiring deep legal knowledge and experience to discern and articulate effectively. Ultimately, presenting these findings persuasively in written briefs and oral arguments is crucial in swaying appellate judges’ decisions.

How Our Firm Can Help

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.

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.