At Brownstone Law, we specialize in appellate litigation, providing clients with expert guidance through Wyoming’s appellate court system. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to delivering meticulous and effective representation to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Wyoming Appellate Court System Overview
Wyoming’s appellate system is structured around the Wyoming Supreme Court, as the state does not have a separate intermediate appellate court.
- Wyoming Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it consists of five justices who serve eight-year terms. The court primarily reviews appeals from lower courts and has discretionary jurisdiction over certain cases.
Caseload and Statistics
The Wyoming Supreme Court manages a diverse caseload annually. According to the Wyoming Judiciary’s reports, the court’s caseload statistics for recent years are as follows:
- Civil Cases: The number of civil appeals filed has shown fluctuations over the years, reflecting the dynamic nature of civil litigation in the state.
- Criminal Cases: Criminal appeal filings have also varied, indicating changes in criminal case proceedings and appellate reviews.
These figures indicate fluctuations in case types over the years.
Rules of Appellate Procedure
Appeals in Wyoming are governed by the Wyoming 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
- 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.
- Preparation of the Record: The appellant must ensure that the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, is prepared and transmitted to the Supreme Court.
- 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.
- Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer justices’ questions.
- Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.
High-Profile Cases
Wyoming’s Supreme Court has presided over several notable cases:
- Herrera v. Wyoming: In 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Wyoming’s statehood did not void the Crow Tribe‘s right to hunt on “unoccupied lands of the United States” under an 1868 treaty, and that the Bighorn National Forest did not automatically become “occupied” when the forest was created.
- Wyoming v. Houghton: In 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court held that the warrantless search of a passenger’s container capable of holding the object of a search for which there is probable cause is not a violation of the Fourth Amendment, justified under the automobile exception as an effect of the car.
Contact Information
Wyoming Supreme Court
- Address: 2301 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Phone: (307) 777-7316
- Website: Wyoming Supreme Court
- Coordinates: 41.1401° N, 104.8202° W
Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates
At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the appellate process in Wyoming. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that your case is presented with the utmost precision.
