Aug. 19, 2009 – “Observing the rules is not simply a matter of professional pride; a failure to observe applicable Seventh Circuit Rules will, at a minimum, result in inconvenience in the form of a rejection of the brief by the clerk’s office. More serious consequences may result as well.” – preface to The Attorney’s Guide to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
This State Bar CLE book, first published in 1987 and now in its fourth edition, is an indispensable guide to handling federal appeals in Wisconsin, Indiana, and Illinois. Conceived, reviewed, and written by experienced lawyers and court personnel, this is where you find the answers to unexpected or confusing questions, from the mundane but deadly matter of deadlines, to the esoteric question of the color cover for a brief, to the high drama of oral argument. You also need to know how to assemble a proper record on appeal; there’s not much use for perfectly prepared briefs and sparkling white transcripts if the court won’t consider them.
The book covers myriad other appellate practice issues, such as how and when to file expedited appeals or emergency appeals, and how to obtain temporary relief pending appeal. There are direct criminal appeals, reviews of administrative decisions, in forma pauperis appointments, and the ins-and-outs of habeas corpus. And at the end of the day, there remain post-argument issues, such as mandates, petitions for rehearing, and applications for certiorari.
And always lurking in the background is the question of damages, costs, and fees.
That’s the power of this book – having it at your desk is like having an experienced counselor standing at your side, offering advice and sharing war stories, giving you the answers when you need them, and letting you learn vicariously from the painful experiences of others.
Appellate practice is too important, too complex, and too costly for any practitioner to rely on memory or a general understanding of the circuit rules and practice. Whether your practice emphasis in appeals or you are making a first venture into the appellate court, you need your own updated copy of The Attorney’s Guide to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, now available to members for $155, plus tax, shipping, and handling.
Current owners of the book who subscribe to the State Bar’s automatic supplementation service are automatically shipped new supplements with an invoice for 10 percent off the regular price of the update. For more information or to place an order, call the State Bar at (800) 728-7788 or visit the WisBar Seminars, Books, & Products page.
