Modern Appellate Advocacy: Tips for Appellate Advocacy in 2024 and Beyond

Recent years have brought many changes to the Court of Appeal. Borne out of necessity, many of these changes  have been permanently adopted by the Court. There are also new faces on the bench, with an almost completely different court from just 15 years ago. In other words, it is no longer your mentor’s Court of Appeal and the old way of doing things may no longer apply.

An appeal is not a second kick at the can and is not the time to reargue the trial. It’s a different form of advocacy and lawyers need to know and understand the essential tips for success.  

Join our panel of experts, including the Honourable Justice David Brown, for a lively discussion on what has changed and practical advice for preparing the case and your argument using the skills and tools of modern appellate advocacy.

Topics of discussion include:

• How is appellate advocacy different from motions or trial advocacy?
  • How to focus on what you are trying to overturn and why.
  • How to make best use of a panel that is well prepared.
  • When and how should you give opportunities to juniors.
  • Narrowing issues and reaching agreements with opposing counsel.
• What material practices have changed in appellate advocacy?
  • New developments: oral compendiums, outlines/summaries of oral arguments, virtual hearings, page and word counts.
  • How to be effective as counsel for an intervener.
• Looking forward – where are we going?
  • A wish list for the revamped Rules of Civil Procedure.
  • Advice for counsel using the new tools of advocacy.

Whether you are an experienced appellate lawyer or have never appeared before the Court of Appeal, this program is for you. When you next appear before the Court of Appeal, you will be better prepared, more confident and primed for success!