Disagreeing with a court decision can occur in many situations—within civil, administrative, or criminal cases. In Armenia, as in any state governed by the rule of law, disagreement with a judge’s decision does not automatically constitute a verdict. The law provides clear pathways and mechanisms for appealing or reviewing such decisions.
This article outlines the steps to take if you disagree with a judge’s ruling, the available appeal methods, deadlines, legal grounds, as well as your rights and responsibilities.
Where to Begin
When you receive a court decision or judgment and believe it to be unfair, unlawful, or based on misinterpretation of facts or law, the first steps should be:
- Carefully reviewing the full content of the court decision
- Consulting with an attorney or legal expert to understand the grounds and options for appeal
Grounds for Appeal
You may appeal a court decision if any of the following apply:
- Misapplication of the law (incorrect interpretation or use of the law)
- Improper evaluation of evidence
- Violations of legal procedures
- Infringement of a party’s rights during the trial
- Newly discovered circumstances that were not considered during the hearing
- Judicial bias or an unsubstantiated decision
The Court System in Armenia
The judicial system in Armenia consists of three main levels:
- Courts of First Instance (general jurisdiction, administrative, or criminal)
- Courts of Appeal
- Court of Cassation
Each higher instance has the authority to review the decision of a lower court, provided that the appeal is submitted within the time limits and procedures defined by law.
How to Appeal a First Instance Court Decision
If you are dissatisfied with the decision of a First Instance Court, you have the right to appeal it to the Court of Appeal. This is an official and legal way to request a review of the judge’s ruling.
Steps:
- Prepare an appeal, stating:
- Which parts of the court ruling you disagree with
- The legal or factual grounds for the appeal
- What decision you expect from the Court of Appeal
- Which parts of the court ruling you disagree with
- Submit the appeal to:
- The same court that issued the decision
- The court will forward the appeal to the Court of Appeal within 3 days
- The same court that issued the decision
- Pay the state duty
- A state fee must be paid as defined by law, except for socially vulnerable individuals who may be exempt
- A state fee must be paid as defined by law, except for socially vulnerable individuals who may be exempt
- Respect the deadlines
- Civil cases: within 1 month of receiving the official copy of the decision
- Criminal cases: within 15 days
- Administrative cases: within 1 month
- Civil cases: within 1 month of receiving the official copy of the decision
Possible Outcomes of the Court of Appeal
The Court of Appeal may:
- Reject the appeal and uphold the original decision
- Uphold the appeal, modifying or overturning the previous decision
- Return the case to the First Instance Court for a new trial
The decision of the Court of Appeal may become final if it is not appealed to the Court of Cassation.
What to Do if You Disagree with the Court of Appeal’s Decision

You may file a cassation appeal to the Court of Cassation if the appeal is based on exceptional legal errors. The cassation complaint may be dismissed through a simplified procedure if the Court of Cassation determines that it lacks legal novelty or does not involve a serious violation.
Not All Cases Are Accepted for Cassation Review
The Court of Cassation will consider a case only if:
- There is a serious violation of the law or a decision made outside the court’s jurisdiction
- The case presents a significant legal issue of exceptional importance
Cassation Appeal Deadlines:
- Civil and administrative cases: within 1 month
- Criminal cases: within 15 days
Case Review Based on Newly Discovered Circumstances
If a court decision is final and no longer subject to appeal, but new facts or circumstances emerge that were unknown during the trial, you may:
- Request a new trial
- Seek to restore justice through a review procedure
Such reviews are regulated by the Procedural Codes of the Republic of Armenia.
Complaint Against a Judge’s Conduct
If you believe that the judge not only made an incorrect decision but also violated ethical or professional conduct (e.g., bias, conflict of interest, unlawful behavior), you may:
- File a complaint with the Supreme Judicial Council to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the judge
- Submit a written complaint, which will be examined as part of a disciplinary review process
Your Rights During the Appeal Process

During the appeal process, you have the right to:
- Submit an appeal within the legally prescribed deadlines
- Present new evidence (if permitted)
- Appear at hearings in the Court of Appeal and the Court of Cassation
- Receive legal assistance from an attorney
- Request a copy of the decision with full justification
The Role of an Attorney
An attorney or legal expert plays a crucial role in:
- Legally evaluating your case
- Drafting appeals and verifying their compliance with the law
- Representing you during court hearings
To ensure an effective appeal, it is essential to have the support of a specialized lawyer familiar with the specific nuances of the relevant field of law.
Free Legal Aid
If you do not have the financial means to hire a lawyer, you can apply for assistance from a Public Defender or Legal Aid Offices. These services operate with the support of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia.
Conclusion
Disagreeing with a judge’s decision in Armenia is not just a personal opinion—it can serve as a legal basis for action. Armenian law provides clear mechanisms for appealing any judicial act. It is essential to assess the situation correctly, meet the deadlines, prepare well-grounded appeals, and, ideally, seek legal assistance.
Remember: Armenia’s judicial system is designed to allow for the review and correction of possible errors. Your active participation and legally informed approach can help ensure a fair and lawful outcome.
If you are seriously considering appealing a decision, you may also consult the legal experts at LSA Law Office.