Mastering Appellate Advocacy and Process

Mastering Appellate Advocacy and Process clearly and concisely covers all aspects of appellate practice. The book first addresses appellate procedures in use across the United States, beginning with a compendium of federal and state appellate court systems, then covering preserving error below and on appeal, initiating an appeal, and compiling the record, as well as appealable orders and judgments, proper parties on appeal, and appellate jurisdiction. It then delves into legal analysis, drafting, and advocacy techniques used in preparing appellate briefs, as well as oral advocacy techniques in a discussion that is useful to both novice and experienced attorneys.

Written for practicing lawyers as well as students, the book also includes a chapter devoted to law school moot court competitions, identifying how typical moot court competitions are like, and unlike, real-world appellate practice. The authors delve into technical waters while maintaining an accessible tone and structure, taking nothing for granted in terms of pre-existing knowledge or experience in the appellate field. The second edition has been updated to reflect developments in appellate court systems and procedure, legal practice, research, citation, and technology.