The phrase "appellate level" refers to a higher court that reviews a previous court's decision when there is a disagreement or an appeal. It is where people go to challenge or contest a judgment they believe is wrong or unfair. Full definition
She focuses on litigation of securities, derivative, M&A, and complex business matters at the trial and appellate levels in both federal and state courts, and before arbitration panels. (weil.com)
Caribbean jurisdictions maintain their internal court systems at the first instance and secondary appellate levels. (lawyer-monthly.com)
I'm sure that some superior or appellate level judges, here, feel that way about some judges in lower courts. (slaw.ca)