This course will provide in-depth inquiry into the many substantive and procedural issues central to practice before the federal and state courts of appeal. Beginning with a brief examination of the history and development of appellate courts, students will then consider the modern courts' essential functions and limits upon appellate decision making. Topics will include appellate jurisdiction, finality and appealable orders, standards of review, and harmless error and issue preservation. Appellate procedure will be examined through study of the federal rules. Finally, students will consider questions of professional responsibility unique to appellate practice and other aspects of effective appellate advocacy. Enrollment limited.
