At Brownstone Law, we focus in appellate litigation, offering exceptional representation to clients navigating Massachusetts’ appellate court system. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing meticulous and effective advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Massachusetts Appellate Court System Overview

Massachusetts’ appellate system comprises two primary courts: the Supreme Judicial Court and the Appeals Court.

  • Supreme Judicial Court (SJC): As the state’s highest appellate court, the SJC consists of seven justices. It reviews decisions from lower courts and addresses significant legal questions impacting the Commonwealth.
  • Appeals Court: Serving as the intermediate appellate court, the Appeals Court handles a broad spectrum of appeals from trial courts and administrative agencies, providing thorough and timely reviews.

Caseload and Statistics

The Appeals Court manages a substantial caseload annually. For detailed statistical information, please refer to the Massachusetts Court System’s official reports.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Massachusetts are governed by the Massachusetts Rules of Appellate Procedure, 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

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the clerk of the trial court within 30 days after the entry of the judgment or order being appealed.
  2. Preparation of the Record: The appellant must ensure that the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, is prepared and transmitted to the appellate court.
  3. 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.
  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

Massachusetts’ appellate courts have presided over several notable cases:

  • Goodridge v. Department of Public Health: In 2003, the Supreme Judicial Court ruled that prohibiting same-sex marriage violated the Massachusetts Constitution, making Massachusetts the first U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage.
  • Bernard Baran Case: Bernard Baran was wrongfully convicted in the 1980s during the day-care sex-abuse hysteria. After serving over 21 years, his conviction was overturned in 2006 due to prosecutorial misconduct and ineffective assistance of counsel.

Contact Information

Supreme Judicial Court

  • Address: John Adams Courthouse, One Pemberton Square, Boston, MA 02108
  • Phone: (617) 557-1000
  • Website: Supreme Judicial Court
  • Coordinates: 42.3586° N, 71.0626° W

Appeals Court

  • Address: John Adams Courthouse, One Pemberton Square, Boston, MA 02108
  • Phone: (617) 725-8106
  • Website: Massachusetts Appeals Court
  • Coordinates: 42.3586° N, 71.0626° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

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