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Superior Court Appellate Form Criteria

In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.

Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.

Information to complete the forms should be TYPED rather than handwritten.

To file for an appeal to the Superior Court you will need:

  • Time and patience
  • Case number
  • Appeal must be filed no later than 14 days after the final judgment of the lower court
  • Court transcripts of previous trials pertaining to the appeal or details of the transcript order with expected date of completion
  • The following documents:
    • Notice of Appeal
    • Docket of proceedings
    • Record of payment of bonds
    • The Complaint, Answer, Counter or Cross Claims, any amendments, and all proofs of service
    • The Judgment, Order, or other Ruling that is the subject of the appeal or cross appeal
    • Written motions, responses, and replies
    • Exhibits
    • The record or transcript of the trial
  • Fees must be paid at time of filing
    • If requesting a fee waiver or deferral knowledge of monthly income statements, monthly expenses, and current assets

Required formatting for Memorandum:

  • Typed or printed (must be legible)
  • 15 pages or less, not including certified exhibits
    • Single-sided printing
  • Double spaced if typed
  • Include
    • The Facts: a short statement of the facts of your case.  References to the Record on Appeal should support your factual statements.
    • Your Argument: a short statement explaining why you believe the ruling of the lower court to be incorrect.  Include references to court rules, state statutes, and case law.
    • Your Conclusion: a summarizing statement clarifying what you want the Superior Court to do.
  • If you wish to appear and make a statement to the Superior Court, you have to state "Oral Argument Requested" in the caption on the first page

 

 

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