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

Mississippi Appellate Court System Overview

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

  • Mississippi Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it has broad jurisdiction to review cases raising significant legal questions. The court consists of nine justices who oversee cases involving capital punishment, election disputes, and laws found unconstitutional in lower courts.
  • Mississippi Court of Appeals: Established in 1995 to alleviate the Supreme Court’s caseload, this intermediate appellate court handles cases assigned by the Supreme Court, focusing on correcting errors where the law is settled but facts are disputed. The court comprises ten judges elected from five districts, serving staggered eight-year terms.

Caseload and Statistics

The Mississippi Court of Appeals hears cases assigned by the Supreme Court, primarily focusing on correcting errors where the law is settled but facts are disputed.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Mississippi are governed by the Mississippi 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 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

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

  • Case Example: In 2023, the Mississippi Supreme Court ruled on a significant case involving state election laws, impacting future electoral processes.

Contact Information

Mississippi Supreme Court

  • Address: Carroll Gartin Justice Building, 450 High Street, Jackson, MS 39201
  • Phone: (601) 359-3694
  • Website: Mississippi Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 32.2998° N, 90.1848° W

Mississippi Court of Appeals

  • Address: Carroll Gartin Justice Building, 450 High Street, Jackson, MS 39201
  • Phone: (601) 576-4630
  • Website: Mississippi Court of Appeals
  • Coordinates: 32.2998° N, 90.1848° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

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