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

Wisconsin Appellate Court System Overview

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

  • Wisconsin Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it consists of seven justices elected to ten-year terms. The court has discretionary jurisdiction, primarily reviewing cases that involve significant legal questions or matters of statewide importance.
  • Wisconsin Court of Appeals: Serving as the intermediate appellate court, it is divided into four districts, each handling appeals from specific counties. The court reviews decisions from the circuit courts to ensure the correct application of law.

Caseload and Statistics

The Wisconsin Court of Appeals manages a substantial caseload annually. According to the Wisconsin Court System’s reports, the court’s caseload statistics for recent years are as follows:

  • Appeals Filed: In 2024, a total of 2,529 appeals were filed across all districts.
  • Appeals Pending: At the end of December 2024, there were 2,167 cases pending before the Court of Appeals. Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Wisconsin are governed by the Wisconsin 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

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the clerk of the circuit court within 45 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 Court of Appeals.
  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

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

  • State v. Loomis: In 2016, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled on the use of risk assessment algorithms in sentencing, highlighting concerns about transparency and potential biases.
  • Milwaukee Branch of the NAACP v. Walker: This case addressed the constitutionality of Wisconsin’s voter ID law, with the Supreme Court ultimately upholding the law in 2014.

Contact Information

Wisconsin Supreme Court

  • Address: 110 East Main Street, Madison, WI 53703
  • Phone: (608) 266-1880
  • Website: Wisconsin Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 43.0747° N, 89.3842° W

Wisconsin Court of Appeals – District I

Wisconsin Court of Appeals – District II

Wisconsin Court of Appeals – District III

Wisconsin Court of Appeals – District IV

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