When a court issues a judgment, the losing party may choose to appeal the decision. This is a normal part of the legal process—but filing an appeal doesn’t automatically pause the enforcement of that original judgment. That’s where an appeal bond comes in.
An appeal bond, sometimes referred to as a supersedeas bond, is a type of surety bond that allows a judgment debtor (the person appealing the decision) to delay payment or other enforcement of a judgment while the case moves to a higher court. It protects the winning party and the court by ensuring that, should the appeal fail, the original judgment will still be honored.
An appeal bond is a court-ordered bond that guarantees payment of a judgment—including interest and court costs—if the appeal is unsuccessful. It offers financial security to the party who won the initial judgment by assuring that they will not be left empty-handed if the appeal drags on or is ultimately denied.
This bond is typically required before the court agrees to stay enforcement of the judgment. Without it, the judgment creditor (the winning party) can move forward with collecting the awarded money or property.
When a defendant decides to appeal a civil court decision, they must request a stay of enforcement. Most courts require an appeal bond to grant this stay. The bond is generally set at the value of the judgment plus interest and potential legal fees, often totaling 110% to 150% of the original amount.
If the appellate court upholds the lower court's ruling, the bond ensures that the winning party will receive the full amount they’re owed—even if the appellant attempts to delay or evade payment. If the appeal succeeds, the bond becomes null and void, with no obligation to pay.
Anyone appealing a monetary judgment in a civil case may be required to post an appeal bond. This includes individuals, businesses, and organizations. Courts at both the state and federal levels frequently require these bonds before agreeing to delay enforcement.
Without an appeal bond, judgment creditors can begin collection efforts immediately—even while an appeal is pending. That can result in wage garnishment, asset seizure, or liens, creating additional stress for the appealing party.
The cost of an appeal bond is based on the total bond amount and the applicant’s creditworthiness. Applicants typically pay a premium (a percentage of the bond amount) rather than the full value. Strong credit and financial backing can help secure lower premium rates.
At Jurisco, we understand how time-sensitive appeals can be. Our bond professionals work quickly to secure the correct bond amount and submit all necessary documentation, often within 24 hours. Our clients appreciate how we streamline the process and ensure compliance with court mandates across all 50 states.
Securing an appeal bond can be complicated but it doesn’t have to be. At Jurisco, our team specializes in court-ordered surety bonds, including appeal bonds and supersedeas bonds. We’re here to simplify the process, provide competitive rates, and deliver fast results when timing is critical.
Here’s what sets Jurisco apart:
Whether you’re an individual appealing a small claims decision or a corporation contesting a major civil judgment, we’ve helped clients in similar situations across the country.
Appeals are a critical part of the justice system, ensuring fairness and allowing parties to contest potentially flawed decisions. But while you seek justice through an appeal, the law requires you to respect the initial judgment financially and procedurally.
An appeal bond from Jurisco provides the court with assurance and gives you time to make your case without risking premature collections. Let our team help you meet your court requirements quickly and professionally so you can focus on your appeal with confidence. Contact Jurisco today.