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

Missouri Appellate Court System Overview

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

  • Missouri Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it has exclusive jurisdiction over specific case types, including those involving the validity of United States statutes or treaties, state constitutional provisions or statutes, revenue laws, challenges to state office titles, and cases where the death penalty is imposed. The court consists of seven judges who oversee these significant legal matters.
  • Missouri Court of Appeals: Serving as the intermediate appellate court, it handles appeals from the circuit courts, except those under the Supreme Court’s exclusive jurisdiction. The Court of Appeals is divided into three districts:
    • Eastern District: Located in St. Louis, it serves 25 counties and the city of St. Louis.
    • Western District: Based in Kansas City, it covers 45 counties.
    • Southern District: Situated in Springfield, it serves 44 counties.

Caseload and Statistics

The Missouri Court of Appeals manages a substantial caseload annually. For detailed statistical information, including case filings and dispositions, please refer to the 2023 Annual Judicial and Statistical Report.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Missouri are governed by the Missouri Rules of Civil Procedure – Rules Relating to All Appellate Courts, specifically Rule 84, which outlines 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 ten days after 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 respondent then files a brief in response, and the appellant may file a reply brief if necessary.
  4. Oral Argument: 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

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

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

Contact Information

Missouri Supreme Court

  • Address: 207 West High Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
  • Phone: (573) 751-4144
  • Website: Missouri Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 38.5766° N, 92.1735° W

Missouri Court of Appeals

  • Eastern District
    • Address: One Post Office Square, 815 Olive Street, Room 304, St. Louis, MO 63101
    • Phone: (314) 539-4300
    • Website: Eastern District Court of Appeals
    • Coordinates: 38.6293° N, 90.1894° W
  • Western District
  • Southern District

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

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