Appellate Co-Counsel & Brief Writing

Appellate Co-Counsel & Brief Writing Services for Attorneys

When a case moves from trial to appeal, the legal landscape changes. Appellate work demands meticulous research, precise writing, and a strategic focus on the issues most likely to succeed. We partner with trial attorneys across California to provide high-level appellate support-whether as co-counsel or behind-the-scenes brief writers-so you can give your client the best chance at a successful outcome.

Support for Trial Attorneys

If you're a trial attorney with a case headed to appeal, we can help. We respect your client relationship and work to enhance-not replace-your representation. Whether your client needs to explore an appeal or defend a favorable judgment, we provide the appellate skillset to complement your trial expertise. Many attorneys call on James for his deep legal research skills and proven track record in appellate courts.

We handle every type of appellate brief, including:

Appellant's Opening Brief

Respondent's Brief

Amicus Curiae Briefs

Our briefs are clear, persuasive, and rooted in thorough legal analysis. We can ghostwrite for you to file under your own name, or serve as co-counsel of record. We also review and refine briefs drafted by other attorneys, strengthening arguments and ensuring compliance with appellate rules.

Issue Identification & Strategy

The strongest appeals often come from narrowing the focus to a few winning issues. We can step in immediately after trial to identify and prioritize those issues, providing a fresh perspective that's harder to achieve when you've been immersed in the case for months or years. James's ability to draw on broader legal context often uncovers arguments or angles others miss.

Flexible Collaboration

We adapt to your needs:



  • Serve as counsel of record on appeal, letting you focus on other cases
  • Work behind the scenes so you maintain client contact and primary billing
  • Offer fee-sharing per California Rules (with client consent) or flat-fee arrangements
  • Provide moot court sessions to sharpen your oral argument before the panel

Past Collaborations

We've partnered with attorneys in Santa Cruz and throughout California to achieve strong appellate results. Examples include drafting a complex commercial contract appeal that led to a published reversal, and assisting a public defender's office in securing a reduced sentence for a client through persuasive briefing.

Attorney FAQ

  • If I refer an appeal, will you keep me updated?

    Yes. We'll involve you as much or as little as you wish and clarify each attorney's role for the client.

  • Do you handle federal appeals?

    Primarily, we work in the California Court of Appeal, but we also handle Ninth Circuit federal appeals when needed.

  • What do you charge for an appellate brief?

    Fees depend on complexity. We offer flat-fee or hourly arrangements and work to structure costs in a way that serves both you and your client.

Partner With Us

Attorneys: Elevate your client's appellate chances with experienced support. Whether you need a seasoned advocate to take the lead or a skilled writer to draft a winning brief, we're here to help.

55 River Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz, CA