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

Virginia Appellate Court System Overview

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

  • Supreme Court of Virginia: As the state’s highest court, it consists of seven justices elected to 12-year terms. The court primarily reviews decisions of lower courts, including the Court of Appeals, focusing on significant legal questions and matters of substantial public interest.
  • Court of Appeals of Virginia: Established in 1985, this intermediate appellate court expanded from 11 to 17 judges in 2021. It hears appeals from circuit courts and the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, sitting in panels of at least three judges and sometimes en banc.

Caseload and Statistics

The Court of Appeals of Virginia manages a substantial caseload annually. Detailed statistical information is available through the Court Performance and Statistical Services (CPSS) of the Virginia Judicial System.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Virginia are governed by the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia, 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

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

  • Loving v. Virginia: A landmark civil rights decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that invalidated laws prohibiting interracial marriage.
  • Virginia v. Black: A case in which the U.S. Supreme Court held that cross burning, done with the intent to intimidate, is not protected by the First Amendment.

Contact Information

Supreme Court of Virginia

  • Address: 100 North Ninth Street, Richmond, VA 23219
  • Phone: (804) 786-2251
  • Website: Supreme Court of Virginia
  • Coordinates: 37.5407° N, 77.4360° W

Court of Appeals of Virginia

  • Address: 109 North Eighth Street, Richmond, VA 23219
  • Phone: (804) 786-5651
  • Website: Court of Appeals of Virginia
  • Coordinates: 37.5407° N, 77.4349° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

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