How do you persuade an appellate Justice to rule for you? This seminar will address how to persuade appellate judges, by thinking strategically when you write a brief or a petition for writ. About 100 pages of materials will be distributed.

The State Bar has approved this program for three credits of specialization in appellate practice. Lawyers not seeking specialization credits will receive three regular CLE credits.

This program is not like other appeals programs. It’s about strategy, not form. We won’t spend time going through the rules and the usual ways of doing things. Instead, we’ll focus on one question: what works?

On the panel will be some retired appellate Justices – who are usually much more candid than sitting Justices about what kinds of presentations and arguments got them to change their minds in specific cases.  Retired California Court of Appeals Justices Mike Hanlon (1st District), Bill Stein (1st District), and Richard McAdams (6th District) will speak about what wins.

“Learn from an expert how to handle appeals from beginning to end.”

— Joanne C. Parrilli (ret.), Court of Appeal, First District

“Having sat on several moot court appellate panels with Professor Moskovitz, I can only observe that for the aspiring appellate lawyer, spending time with Professor Moskovitz is a must. His insight on what makes for persuasive appellate advocacy is born of a lifetime of educating great lawyers. He knows what counts in making effective oral arguments and how to deliver the message in the most persuasive manner. If winning is important to you, Myron Moskovitz is an essential part of your training and preparation.”

— Judge Ronald M. Sabraw (ret.), Alameda County Superior Court, Complex Litigation Dept.

“Professor Moskovitz is a real pro on appeals; he knows the law and, equally importantly, the tactical aspects of successful appeals.”

— Judge Robert Baines (ret), Santa Clara County Superior Court

“Briefs win appeals. Prof. Moskovitz teaches how to brief. Nuts and bolts and more, and not the same tired tool-kit you get from conventional speakers. Do you want to win?”

— Don Willenburg, National Appellate Practice Group leader, Gordon & Rees LLP; Past chair, Appellate Practice Section, Bar Assn. of San Francisco

“The renowned Prof. Moskovitz assisted our team in preparing an oral argument in the California Supreme Court, a venerable and challenging forum for any advocate. On short notice, he and his class staged a moot court. Professor Moskovitz administered “tough love” homing in on every weakness and dissecting the planned presentation with great skill, high energy and good cheer. He lived up to his reputation as an authority on advocacy and the ‘person to see’ on California appeals. And, yes, with the retooled argument, our side won the day.”

— Jonathan W. Cuneo, Esq., Washington, D.C.

“Professor Moskovitz uses his talent and experience to help you prevail on appeal. His approach to written argument is outstanding and essential for trial and appellate advocates.”

— Judge Ken Kawaichi (ret.), Alameda County Superior Court