Question for any legal eagles out there

[theHandpuppet]

Just how long does it take for an appeals court to hand down a decision, anyway? I've been watching and waiting every day for the decision from the federal appeals court in Cincinnati regarding gay rights cases from four states (OH, KY, TN & MI)

A little background...
http://www.democraticunderground.com/113739336
http://www.democraticunderground.com/113739610

[gratuitous]

1. Short answer: As long as it takes

Slightly longer answer: If the matter has been fully briefed (opening brief by appellants, response by respondents, reply by appellants), and oral argument has been held, a federal appeals court can issue its opinion anywhere from 30 days after oral argument for a simple case like an administrative appeal of a social security disability denial to 120 days or more for a complicated case. It looks like oral argument was presented on August 6. I wouldn't expect a decision before Labor Day.

Appellate judges hate getting their orders overturned, so for a touchy issue like marriage equality the judges are going to be pretty careful in the drafting of their opinion, which will take longer.

[elleng]

2. This one is likely to take a while, as it involves

'six cases from Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee in the biggest such session on the issue so far. The cases pit states' rights and traditional, conservative values against what plaintiffs' attorneys say is a fundamental right to marry under the U.S. Constitution.'

Argument was August 6. Months, I'd expect.

[msanthrope]

3. Depends.

Seriously.....that's the best answer this attorney whose last appeal filed took 17 months can give you.

[AngryAmish]

4. complexity x controversy

[theHandpuppet]

5. Thanks to all for your replies

Obviously I had some unrealistic expectations. Don't trust this panel of judges, anyway.