Browse terms
Courts and procedure
Bankruptcy appellate panel
A bankruptcy appellate panel is a panel of three bankruptcy judges that hears appeals from bankruptcy court decisions in place of the district court. 1
Talk to a lawyerHow it works
By default, an appeal from a bankruptcy judge's decision goes to the district court for that district. 1
A panel is an alternative that exists only in some places. The judicial council of each circuit sets up a panel service made up of bankruptcy judges from the circuit, unless it finds there are not enough judicial resources or that the service would add delay or cost. A panel can take appeals from a district only if that district's judges have authorized it. 1
Where a panel is available, the appeal goes to it unless a party chooses the district court. The person appealing must choose when filing the appeal. Any other party has 30 days after being served with the notice of appeal. 1
A judge on the panel may not hear an appeal that comes from that judge's own district. 1
Common questions
Is there a panel where I live?
It depends on your circuit and your district. Check with your bankruptcy court or a bankruptcy lawyer to find out where appeals from that court go. 1
Can a panel's decision be appealed?
Yes. The federal courts of appeals can hear a further appeal from the final decision. 2
Sources
Want to know how this applies to you?
A bankruptcy lawyer in your state can look at your situation with you.
Connect to a bankruptcy lawyer