At Brownstone Law, we specialize in appellate litigation, offering clients exceptional representation in navigating Louisiana’s appellate court system. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing meticulous and effective advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Louisiana Appellate Court System Overview
Louisiana’s appellate system comprises two primary courts: the Louisiana Supreme Court and the Louisiana Courts of Appeal.
- Louisiana Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it has discretionary jurisdiction over appeals from the Courts of Appeal and direct jurisdiction in specific matters, such as disciplinary proceedings involving the judiciary and the bar. The court consists of seven justices who review cases to ensure uniformity and address significant legal questions.
- Louisiana Courts of Appeal: These intermediate appellate courts review appeals from lower courts, ensuring that the law is applied consistently across the state. Louisiana is divided into five appellate circuits, each serving specific parishes.
Caseload and Statistics
According to the 2023 Annual Report of the Judicial Council of the Supreme Court of Louisiana, the Courts of Appeal experienced the following caseloads:
- Civil Appeals: The number of civil appeals filed in the Courts of Appeal has shown fluctuations over the years, reflecting the dynamic nature of civil litigation in the state.
- Criminal Appeals: Criminal appeal filings have also varied, indicating changes in criminal case proceedings and appellate reviews.
For detailed and up-to-date statistics, refer to the 2023 Annual Report.
Rules of Appellate Procedure
Appeals in Louisiana are governed by the Uniform Rules of Louisiana Courts of Appeal, which outline 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
- Order of Appeal: An order of appeal may be granted on oral motion in open court, on written motion, or on petition. This order shall show the return day of the appeal in the appellate court and shall provide the amount of security to be furnished, when required.
- 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.
- Briefs: The appellant submits an initial 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.
- Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer judges’ questions.
- Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.
Contact Information
Louisiana Supreme Court
- Address: 400 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Phone: (504) 310-2300
- Website: Louisiana Supreme Court
- Coordinates: 29.9574° N, 90.0659° W
Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal
- Address: 1600 North Third Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
- Phone: (225) 382-3000
- Website: Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal
- Coordinates: 30.4571° N, 91.1874° W
Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeal
- Address: 430 Fannin Street, Shreveport, LA 71101
- Phone: (318) 227-3700
- Website: Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeal
- Coordinates: 32.5112° N, 93.7486° W
Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal
- Address: 1000 Main Street, Lake Charles, LA 70615
- Phone: (337) 433-9403
- Website: Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal
- Coordinates: 30.2266° N, 93.2174° W
Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal
- Address: 410 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Phone: (504) 412-6001
- Website: Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal
- Coordinates: 29.9575° N, 90.0659° W
Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal
- Address: 101 Derbigny Street, Gretna, LA 70053
- Phone: (504) 376-1400
- Website: Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal
- Coordinates: 29.9165° N, 90.0215° W
Contact Brownstone Law and Robert Sirianni to discuss your federal appeal in Louisiana.
