Appellate Training

Introduction to State Collateral Attacks

Experienced and newer attorneys alike will gain valuable insight into the different forms of collateral relief in Washington, learn the differences, benefits, and risks of each of those forms of relief.

Date: May 27, 2026

Location: Seattle

Preliminary agenda [PDF].

To reserve your seat, send your name, bar number, and event date to appellatetraining@opd.wa.gov

Introduction to Appellate Practice Training

This training is for lawyers who are new to appellate practice. Space is limited.

Dates: June 2-4, 2026

Location: Spokane, Courtyard by Marriott Spokane Downtown at the Convention Center

Note: Olympia May 13-15 training registration is now closed; a repeat Olympia training will be held June 22-24, 2026.

CLE credits: pending approval

Cost: free to current and prospective OPD appellate contract attorneys

What You Will Learn

Day 1 (June 2, 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 (June 3, 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 (June 4, 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

Preliminary Agenda [PDF]. A detailed agenda will be provided to attendees.

Claim Your Seat

To reserve your spot in Spokane, email us at appellatetraining@opd.wa.gov with the following information:

Full name
Bar number
Preferred CLE location (June 2-4, 2026 Spokane session or June 22-24, 2026 Olympia session)
City you will travel from
Attendance (full event, or specific dates)
Lodging needed (If traveling more than 50 miles; include dates)
Food restrictions or preferences

We will confirm your registration and follow up with additional details.