Appeals Process

I know every state is different but was just curious if anyone else had been through this and what it was like. We have had our FD her entire life (6 years.) Her tpr has been tied up in appeals for years because bio mom and her attorney have come up with every motion for extensions and delays that they possibly can. Well no I see that our case is finally on the docket for this month. We don't have to be there. There are no oral arguments. They are just doing it by reviewing the briefs and endless files. I was wondering, how long is it usually before a ruling after the date it is on the docket? I heard it is not the same day. What is that docket date for? What exactly do they do on that date? And if the tpr is affirmed (praying!), is that the end? Any insight would be appreciated!