Appellate Courts Section
LACBA’s Appellate Courts Section serves as a bridge between the appellate bench and bar. Through continuing legal education, professional networking, and active collaboration with the courts, the Section works to improve the administration of appellate justice in California and beyond.
We are committed to elevating the practice of appellate law by:
- Offering seminars on state and federal appellate practice
- Collaborating with appellate courts to strengthen the administration of justice
- Providing a professional forum for appellate practitioners to exchange insights
- Monitoring and evaluating proposals that affect appellate practice and recommending changes to statutes and rules
What We Offer
- Continuing Legal Education – Practical programs and seminars designed for appellate practitioners of all experience levels.
- Bench-Bar Collaboration – Initiatives that strengthen communication and understanding between the appellate bench and bar.
- Networking – Opportunities to connect with colleagues, mentors, and leaders in appellate practice.
- Practice Development – Engagement in rulemaking, legislative monitoring, and proposals impacting appellate law.
Pro Bono Partnership with Public Counsel
The Appellate Courts Section has partnered with Public Counsel’s Appellate Law Program to expand access to justice in the Second Appellate District. The pilot program provides opportunities for members to make a direct impact:
- Take a Case – Represent indigent civil litigants in eligible appeals posted on our website.
- Answer Walk-In Questions – Volunteer at the Appellate Law Clinic in downtown Los Angeles, assisting self-represented litigants with routine questions.
- Evaluate a Record – Assess cases from an appellate perspective to identify potentially meritorious issues.
- Mentor an Attorney – Guide lawyers handling their first appellate cases on a pro bono basis.
Eligible cases requiring pro bono assistance are announced to members by email. The Section has also created the Appellate Primer, a practical guide to help unrepresented litigants and non-appellate practitioners navigate civil appeals in the Second Appellate District.
Why You Should Join
- Expand your knowledge of appellate law through CLE and mentorship opportunities.
- Build professional connections with appellate practitioners, judges, and colleagues.
- Contribute to pro bono efforts that provide meaningful access to appellate justice.
- Stay informed on appellate rule changes and legislative updates.
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