What Are Final Appealable Orders in Indiana?

When navigating the legal system, it’s essential to understand what qualifies as a “final appealable order.” Not every court decision can be appealed, but certain rulings allow the appeals process to proceed. At Ciyou & Associates, P.C., our attorneys are skilled at identifying final appealable orders and guiding clients through the complex appellate process. 

Whether you are facing a family law dispute, criminal case, or civil litigation, our team can help determine if your case is eligible for appeal.

What Is a Final Appealable Order?

A final appealable order is a court decision that fully resolves all the issues in a case, leaving nothing else for the trial court to address. In most instances, only final orders can be appealed. An appeal may not be allowed if a case is ongoing or unresolved until the trial court has issued a final judgment.

Some interlocutory orders—those made during a case—can also be appealed if they meet specific criteria. However, most appeals arise from final civil, criminal, or family law judgments.

Common Examples of Final Appealable Orders

• Divorce Decrees
  A final divorce decree, which resolves all issues related to property division, child custody, and spousal support, is typically a final appealable order.
• Criminal Sentencing
  After a criminal conviction, the sentencing order issued by the court is generally considered a final appealable order.
• Civil Judgments
  In civil litigation, a judgment that resolves all claims and counterclaims between the parties is considered a final appealable order.