Mastering the Art of Persuasive Appellate Briefs
Recording of a 90-minute CLE video webinar with Q&A
This CLE course will provide counsel with techniques for writing compelling appellate briefs, identify common mistakes that routinely lead to poor results, and provide a glimpse into how appellate judges read briefs. Appellate courts usually require briefs to be structured in a specific way, and our panel, including a former appellate law clerk, will explore the nuances of each section, providing tips for preparing a persuasive brief that may win a case before or without the need for oral argument.
Outline
- Stating the issues persuasively
- Telling your client's story with the statement of facts
- Spoiler alert: effective summary of the argument
- Structuring and presenting the argument clearly and concisely
- Explaining what you want the court to do in the conclusion
Benefits
The panel will review these and other relevant issues:
- Identifying and focusing on primary goals of the appellate brief
- Stating the issues in a persuasive manner
- Addressing less favorable facts with candor while minimizing their impact on the case
- Presenting the written argument clearly and concisely with proven persuasive techniques
- Honing in on the weaknesses in the opponent's position
- Avoiding common brief-writing mistakes that weaken your client's position
Faculty
Bennett Evan Cooper
Member
Dickinson Wright
Author of Federal Appellate Practice: Ninth Circuit (2015-2016 ed.), a 1,500-page treatise published annually, Mr.... | Read More
Author of Federal Appellate Practice: Ninth Circuit (2015-2016 ed.), a 1,500-page treatise published annually, Mr. Cooper is respected as a leading practitioner before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. In addition, he has represented parties and amici curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court and the Second, Third, Fifth, Tenth, Eleventh, D.C. and Federal Circuits, as well as various state appellate courts. Mr. Cooper is a past chair of the ABA’s Council of Appellate Lawyers and began his legal career as a law clerk to Ninth Circuit Judge (and later Chief Judge) Alex Kozinski.
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Jill M. Wheaton
Member
Dykema Gossett
Ms. Wheaton is involved in high-profile appellate work, commercial litigation, and products liability defense. She is... | Read More
Ms. Wheaton is involved in high-profile appellate work, commercial litigation, and products liability defense. She is the leader of the Firm's Appellate Practice and Product Liability and Class Action Litigation Practice nationwide. In addition to handling or assisting in matters on appeal in which Dykema represented the client at the trial court level, she is often called on to enter the case for the first time on appeal in all parts of the country. In such cases, she has repeatedly obtained reversals of adverse decisions or sustained favorable rulings. She is a leader of the appellate law community, as indicated by her professional associations, awards, and speaking engagements.
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