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

Minnesota Appellate Court System Overview

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

  • Minnesota Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it consists of seven justices who review decisions from lower courts and address significant legal questions impacting the state.
  • Minnesota Court of Appeals: Established on November 1, 1983, this intermediate appellate court provides prompt and deliberate review of all final decisions of the trial courts, state agencies, and local governments. The Court of Appeals’ decisions are the final ruling in about 95 percent of the 2,000 to 2,400 appeals filed every year, with approximately five percent of its decisions accepted by the Minnesota Supreme Court for further review.

Caseload and Statistics

In 2023, 1,898 cases were filed with the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The court aims to dispose of 75% of cases within 290 days of filing.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Minnesota are governed by the Minnesota Rules of Civil 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 appellate courts within the specified timeframe 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

Minnesota’s appellate courts have presided over several notable cases:

  • State v. Chauvin: In 2021, the Minnesota Court of Appeals upheld the conviction of former police officer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd, a case that garnered international attention and sparked widespread discussions on police reform.

Contact Information

Minnesota Supreme Court

  • Address: Minnesota Judicial Center, 25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155
  • Phone: (651) 296-2581
  • Website: Minnesota Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 44.9556° N, 93.1020° W

Minnesota Court of Appeals

  • Address: Minnesota Judicial Center, 25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155
  • Phone: (651) 297-1000
  • Website: Minnesota Court of Appeals
  • Coordinates: 44.9556° N, 93.1020° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

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