Interlocutory Appeals

Strategic Appellate Intervention Before Final Judgment

In some cases, waiting for a final judgment isn’t just inefficient—it’s legally and strategically risky. Interlocutory appeals allow parties to seek appellate review before the trial court has entered a final order, often to resolve critical legal questions or prevent irreparable harm. These appeals are rare, highly procedural, and must be approached with discipline and precision.

At Robinson & Lawing, LLP, we represent clients in interlocutory and discretionary appeals across North Carolina, including petitions to the North Carolina Court of Appeals and the North Carolina Supreme Court. We bring the strategic judgment needed to know when to act—and the appellate skill to execute.

When Are Interlocutory Appeals Appropriate?

Not every adverse ruling is immediately appealable. North Carolina appellate courts allow interlocutory review in limited but important circumstances, including:

• Orders affecting substantial rights that would be lost or compromised without immediate review
• Injunctions and temporary restraining orders
• Orders denying motions to compel or motions for protective orders in sensitive discovery
• Sovereign immunity rulings
• Governmental immunity rulings
• Orders involving attorney-client privilege or trade secret disclosure
• Denials of motions to dismiss based on jurisdiction or arbitration clauses

We help clients determine whether their case qualifies for interlocutory review and craft compelling arguments for appellate intervention.

Filing Petitions for Discretionary Review

Even when an appeal isn’t allowed as of right, we file motions and petitions for temporary stay, as well as petitions for writ of certiorari, mandamus, supersedea, or prohibition to seek discretionary appellate review in extraordinary situations. These petitions require sharp legal writing and persuasive urgency. We’ve been trusted by clients and referring counsel to prepare high-stakes petitions involving:

• Trial court overreach
• Constitutional violations
• Novel or unsettled questions of law
• Protection of critical evidence or procedural rights

Speed, Strategy, and Procedural Precision

Interlocutory appeals are time-sensitive and governed by strict procedural rules. We move quickly and deliberately, ensuring that notices, records, and supporting briefs are filed correctly and persuasively. We also work closely with trial counsel to ensure that appellate strategy aligns with ongoing trial court proceedings.

Why Choose Robinson & Lawing

Our attorneys combine litigation experience with appellate fluency, allowing us to step into complex matters at a moment’s notice. We know when interlocutory review is worth pursuing—and how to present the case in a way that appellate judges respect and act on. For clients facing immediate legal risk or strategic dead-ends at the trial court level, we offer a direct path to higher review.

Connect with Our Legal Intelligence

If you're considering an interlocutory appeal or seeking immediate appellate review of a trial court ruling, contact Robinson & Lawing, LLP. We’ll help you assess the options, meet the deadlines, and protect your position before it’s too late.