Introduction to Appellate Practice Training
This training is for lawyers who are new to appellate practice. Space is limited.
Dates: May 13-15, 2026
Location: Olympia
A second training will be offered in Spokane in June. Dates and location to be announced later.
CLE credits: pending
What You Will Learn
Day 1 (May 13, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- Overview of the Washington State Courts of Appeals
- Understanding the appellate “record”
- How to review records and identify legal issues
- Basics of effective appellate representation and brief writing for indigent clients
Day 2 (May 14, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- Continued focus on identifying legal issues
- Introduction to the Rules of Appellate Procedure
- Hands-on exercises for writing appellate briefs
- Strategies for clear and effective brief writing
Day 3 (May 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Writing reply briefs and Statements of Additional Authorities
- Communicating with clients during an appeal
- Identifying and explaining risks to clients
- Practice exercises on client communication and risk awareness
Claim Your Seat
To reserve your spot, email us at appellatetraining@opd.wa.gov with the following information:
- Your name
- Bar number
- Preferred CLE location (Olympia or Spokane)
- City you will be traveling from
- If you plan to attend the full event, or only select dates
- If you are traveling more than 50 miles- do you require lodging? For which dates?
- Any food restrictions or preferences
We will confirm your registration and follow up with additional details.