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. 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.