This study describes and evaluates federal and state appellate rules and procedures, as well as current trends in the law. The author focuses on effective case preparation and organization, especially in the areas of brief writing and oral advocacy.

The Model Rules of Professional Conduct provides an up-to-date resource for information on legal ethics. Federal, state and local courts in all jurisdictions look to the Rules for guidance in solving lawyer malpractice cases, disciplinary actions, disqualification issues, sanctions questions and much more. In this volume, black-letter Rules of Professional Conduct are followed by numbered Comments that explain each Rule's purpose and provide suggestions for its practical application. The Rules will help you identify proper conduct in a variety of given situations, review those instances where discretionary action is possible, and define the nature of the relationship between you and your clients, colleagues and the courts.

An in-depth look at the nature and function of appellate courts, including general rule, litigation, exceptions, sua sponte, final judgment rule, state systems, initiating and perfecting an appeal, timeliness, standards of relief, purpose, content, modification or correction of record on appeal, effective brief writing, oral argument, internal operating procedures, time limitations, pre-hearing or summary disposition, opinions and mandates, written opinion, publication, and citation of opinions.

"Family law matters are intimate, personal and touch upon people's most private treasures and issues. This perspective directly affects all aspects of domestic relations, including appellate practice. Serving as a practical guide on whether to appeal a family court decision, and then how to proceed with the appeal, this [book] is a valuable resource for both the newer and more seasoned family lawyer, and it fills a void in the literature by focusing on the unique issues involved in appealing a family law case."--