Click here for an ongoing compilation of the many practice tips we email to our panel attorneys.

Brief Writing Tips

General Brief Writing Tips                                 General Writing Tips

CAFL Brief-Writing Checklist                                                                    Parallelism
General brief writing tips                                                                            Hyphens
Choosing a font                                                                                             Punctuation
Citing to an online resource                                                                       Commas Done Right
Bluebook Guide
SJC Style Manual

Brief Contents

Cover Page                                                                                         Writing a better facts section
Table of Contents                                                                             Persuasive argument summary
Writing compelling Issues Presented                                            Compelling argument headers
Statement of the Case                                                                     Drafting a persuasive argument
Sample Introductions                                                                       Sample conclusions
Primacy and recency (facts)                                                            Certificate of compliance

Oral Arguments (click here)

(including links to watch oral arguments, videos and tips to prepare for in person and virtual hearings)

Training Materials

Appellate Panel Certification Training Videos

Rules of Appellate Procedure                                                          Federal Law and ICPC

Standard/Burden of Proof & Disposition                                      Representing Children on Appeal

Meeting with and Advising the Appellate Client                          Negotiation and Settlement

Evidence for the Appellate Attorney

Client Contact and Relationship Tips

Fireside Chats, PowerPoints and Videos of Lectures

“Sandtraps and Other Hazards at Oral Argument” (2022)

PowerPoint              Video

Adoption of Patty and Other Leading Due Process Cases” (2022)

PowerPoint               Video

“Judged by its Cover: 

Creating a Great First Impression with a Perfect Cover & Table for your Briefs” (2022)

PowerPoint             Video

“Advanced Issues in Child Representation” (2023)

PowerPoint            Video

Other Trainings

“Single Justice Practice for the CAFL Appellate Attorney” (2023)

PowerPoint             Video               Handouts

Other training materials