How can the family of an inmate start the process of an appeal when we live in a different state than he is and what steps in paper work should we take first?
Only the person convicted of an appeal, or that person's attorney, can start the process of an appeal. An appellate attorney is a good first step.
I assume your imprisoned relative wants an appeal. To help him, find a good appellate attorney in the state. The sooner the better because there are deadlines. Good luck.