At Brownstone Law, we specialize in appellate litigation, offering clients unparalleled expertise in navigating Indiana’s appellate court system. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to providing meticulous and effective representation to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Indiana Appellate Court System Overview

Indiana’s appellate system comprises two primary courts: the Indiana Court of Appeals and the Indiana Supreme Court.

  • Indiana Court of Appeals: This intermediate appellate court reviews appeals from trial courts and certain state agencies. It serves as a crucial checkpoint for correcting errors and ensuring the consistent application of law across the state.
  • Indiana Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it has discretionary jurisdiction over appeals from the Court of Appeals and direct jurisdiction in specific matters, such as the practice of law and discipline of judges. The court consists of one Chief Justice and four Associate Justices, with the possibility of expansion as determined by the Indiana General Assembly.

Caseload and Statistics

While specific annual caseload statistics for Indiana’s appellate courts were not available in the provided sources, the Indiana Judicial Branch maintains records and reports on court activities. For detailed and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Indiana Courts website.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Indiana are governed by the Indiana Rules of Appellate Procedure, which outline the procedures for filing appeals, including timelines, formatting requirements for briefs, and guidelines for oral arguments. Adherence to these rules is essential for the successful progression of an appeal.

Process for Appealing a Case

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the Clerk of the Appellate Courts within 30 days after the entry of the final judgment or order.
  2. Preparation of the Record: The appellant is responsible for ensuring that the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, is prepared and filed with the appellate court.
  3. Briefs: The appellant submits an opening brief outlining legal arguments and alleged errors in the trial court’s decision. The appellee responds with their brief, and the appellant may file a reply brief if necessary.
  4. Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer judges’ questions.
  5. Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.

High-Profile Cases

While specific high-profile cases handled by Indiana’s appellate courts were not detailed in the provided sources, the Indiana Judicial Branch’s official website and reputable news outlets regularly publish information on notable cases and decisions. For the most current information, please consult these resources.

Contact Information

Indiana Supreme Court

  • Address: 315 Indiana State House, 200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
  • Phone: (317) 232-2540
  • Website: Indiana Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 39.7686° N, 86.1622° W

Indiana Court of Appeals

  • Address: 115 W. Washington Street, Suite 1080, Indianapolis, IN 46204
  • Phone: (317) 232-4197
  • Website: Indiana Court of Appeals
  • Coordinates: 39.7679° N, 86.1626° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the appellate process in Indiana. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that your case is presented with the utmost precision and expertise.