NY Appellate Div. 2nd Dept. Court Calendar & Dates


NY Appellate Div. 2nd Dept. Court Calendar & Dates

The court docket schedule for the intermediate appellate court docket protecting a selected geographic area of New York State manages the stream of appeals from numerous trial courts. This schedule usually outlines case arguments, movement hearings, and different court docket proceedings, offering construction and predictability for authorized professionals and the general public. As an illustration, a selected date and time could be assigned for an enchantment regarding a business dispute originating from a trial court docket inside the designated space.

Entry to this publicly out there court docket schedule is crucial for sustaining transparency and effectivity inside the judicial system. It permits attorneys to organize their circumstances successfully, ensures well timed decision of appeals, and permits people and organizations to trace the progress of related authorized issues. Traditionally, these schedules had been primarily bodily paperwork, however digital accessibility has enormously expanded public entry and enhanced the court docket’s operational effectivity.

Understanding this procedural framework affords priceless context for decoding authorized information, researching particular circumstances, and comprehending the broader workings of the judicial department. This basis permits for a deeper evaluation of authorized developments, contributing to a extra knowledgeable perspective on points impacting the regional authorized panorama.

1. Courtroom Classes

Courtroom periods are the bedrock of the appellate division’s calendar, representing the structured durations when the court docket convenes to handle authorized issues. The calendar designates particular dates and instances for these periods, offering a framework for the orderly processing of appeals. This structured strategy ensures environment friendly use of judicial sources and permits authorized professionals to plan their schedules accordingly. As an illustration, the calendar may point out a specific week in October devoted to listening to appeals associated to particular authorized areas, enabling attorneys to prioritize case preparation and allocate sources successfully.

The connection between court docket periods and the calendar is one in every of group and performance. The calendar acts as a roadmap, outlining when and the way the court docket addresses its caseload. This structured scheduling facilitates predictable workflows, minimizing delays and guaranteeing well timed decision of appeals. Moreover, the outlined court docket periods inside the calendar permit for centered consideration on particular case sorts, contributing to a extra environment friendly and thorough authorized course of. For instance, dedicating particular periods to advanced business appeals permits for uninterrupted judicial consideration of intricate authorized arguments.

In essence, court docket periods as outlined inside the appellate division’s calendar are basic to the functioning of the appellate course of. They supply construction, transparency, and predictability, guaranteeing efficient case administration and facilitating public entry to the judicial system. Challenges can come up when unexpected circumstances necessitate rescheduling, highlighting the significance of flexibility and communication inside the court docket system. Nevertheless, the established framework of the calendar serves as a vital device for sustaining order and effectivity inside the appellate division’s operations.

2. Movement Schedules

Movement schedules, integral to the appellate division’s second division calendar, govern the timing and procedures for submitting and addressing motions inside the appellate course of. These schedules dictate deadlines for submitting motions, responses, and replies, guaranteeing a structured and predictable stream of authorized proceedings. A cause-and-effect relationship exists: adherence to movement schedules straight impacts case development. As an illustration, failure to file a movement inside the designated timeframe may result in its dismissal, impacting the appellant’s skill to boost particular authorized arguments. Conversely, well timed submission permits for thorough consideration by the court docket, contributing to a good and environment friendly decision of the enchantment.

The significance of movement schedules as a element of the calendar can’t be overstated. They function a vital organizational device, guaranteeing the court docket can handle its caseload successfully. Think about a situation the place a number of events file motions in a posh enchantment. The movement schedule supplies a framework for organizing these motions, guaranteeing every receives correct consideration and stopping procedural delays. Sensible significance emerges when understanding how these schedules influence authorized technique. Attorneys should meticulously monitor deadlines, strategize submitting instances to maximise influence, and anticipate opposing counsel’s actions inside the established timeframe. This meticulous planning is crucial for efficient illustration and profitable navigation of the appellate course of. For instance, a lawyer may strategically file a movement near a key deadline, doubtlessly limiting the opposing get together’s time to formulate a complete response.

In abstract, movement schedules are a basic ingredient of the appellate division’s second division calendar, driving procedural effectivity and influencing authorized technique. Understanding these schedules is essential for all stakeholders within the appellate course of. Whereas adherence to deadlines is paramount, challenges can come up as a result of unexpected circumstances or advanced authorized points requiring extensions. Successfully navigating these challenges requires proactive communication with the court docket and opposing counsel, additional emphasizing the dynamic interaction between authorized technique and the structured framework offered by the appellate division’s calendar.

3. Oral Argument Dates

Oral argument dates, revealed inside the appellate division, second division calendar, signify essential junctures within the appellate course of. These designated dates present litigants the chance to current their circumstances on to the appellate panel, supplementing written briefs with spoken advocacy. Understanding the operate and implications of those dates is crucial for efficient engagement with the appellate system.

  • Scheduling and Notification

    Oral argument dates are assigned by the court docket and communicated to concerned events by way of official notifications. The timing of those dates is influenced by case complexity, court docket schedules, and different procedural elements. Advance discover permits authorized groups to organize arguments, coordinate schedules, and guarantee all crucial supplies are available for presentation to the appellate panel. For instance, a posh business enchantment could also be allotted an extended oral argument slot than a much less intricate matter. This scheduling nuance displays the court docket’s must steadiness thorough consideration with environment friendly case administration.

  • Preparation and Presentation

    Oral argument periods necessitate meticulous preparation. Authorized groups analyze case information, refine authorized arguments, and anticipate potential questions from the appellate panel. This preparation usually includes mock arguments and intensive analysis to make sure a persuasive and well-informed presentation. The allotted time for oral argument is often restricted, requiring concise and impactful supply of key factors. As an illustration, an legal professional may deal with addressing perceived weaknesses of their written temporary, utilizing the oral argument as a chance to straight interact with the panel’s considerations.

  • Judicial Interplay and Clarification

    Oral argument supplies a singular alternative for direct interplay between the appellate panel and authorized counsel. Judges usually pose inquiries to make clear authorized arguments, probe underlying reasoning, and discover potential implications of various authorized interpretations. This dynamic alternate can considerably affect the panel’s understanding of the case, highlighting the significance of clear and responsive communication by authorized counsel. For instance, a choose’s query a few particular precedent can permit an legal professional to exhibit its relevance or distinguish it from the current case.

  • Affect on Case Outcomes

    Whereas not the only determinant, oral arguments can considerably affect case outcomes. Persuasive advocacy, coupled with insightful responses to judicial inquiries, can sway the panel’s understanding of key authorized points. Efficient oral argument can reinforce robust written briefs, make clear ambiguities, and tackle lingering considerations. Conversely, a poorly executed oral argument can undermine a well-reasoned written submission. Thus, meticulous preparation and skillful presentation are essential for maximizing the potential influence of oral argument on the ultimate determination.

In conclusion, oral argument dates inside the appellate division, second division calendar, signify pivotal moments within the appellate course of. These dates present a discussion board for direct engagement with the appellate panel, influencing case outcomes and shaping the event of case regulation. Understanding the dynamics of scheduling, preparation, judicial interplay, and potential influence is essential for efficient appellate advocacy.

4. Submission Deadlines

Submission deadlines, as outlined inside the appellate division, second division calendar, are vital elements governing the well timed submitting of paperwork in appellate proceedings. These deadlines guarantee environment friendly case administration and supply a structured framework for authorized professionals to navigate the appellate course of. Understanding the nuances of those deadlines is crucial for efficient appellate follow.

  • Briefs

    Briefs, core paperwork presenting authorized arguments and supporting proof, are topic to strict submitting deadlines. The calendar specifies the timeframe inside which appellants and respondents should submit their briefs. Lacking a deadline can have important repercussions, doubtlessly resulting in sanctions and even dismissal of the enchantment. As an illustration, an appellant failing to file their opening temporary inside the stipulated timeframe dangers forfeiting the chance to current their case to the appellate court docket.

  • Motions

    Motions, formal requests made to the court docket, additionally adhere to particular deadlines outlined within the calendar. These deadlines govern the submission of the preliminary movement, in addition to any responses or replies from opposing counsel. Much like briefs, failing to fulfill movement deadlines can prejudice a celebration’s authorized standing. For instance, a movement to dismiss filed after the designated deadline is likely to be deemed premature and summarily rejected by the court docket.

  • Document on Attraction

    The report on enchantment, comprising transcripts, reveals, and different paperwork from the decrease court docket proceedings, have to be compiled and submitted inside a specified timeframe. The calendar dictates when the report have to be full and out there for assessment by the appellate court docket. Delays in submitting the report can impede the court docket’s skill to assessment the case promptly and effectively, doubtlessly impacting the general timeline of the enchantment. For instance, incomplete or late-filed information can necessitate adjournments or extensions, delaying the decision of the enchantment.

  • Extensions and Adjournments

    Whereas strict adherence to deadlines is paramount, the calendar additionally supplies mechanisms for requesting extensions or adjournments. These requests have to be made formally and are topic to the court docket’s discretion. Justifications for extensions usually contain unexpected circumstances or advanced authorized points requiring further time for preparation. Granting an extension impacts subsequent deadlines, doubtlessly impacting the general case schedule. For instance, granting an extension for submitting a quick may necessitate rescheduling oral argument dates to accommodate the adjusted timeline.

In conclusion, understanding and adhering to submission deadlines outlined inside the appellate division, second division calendar is key to profitable appellate follow. These deadlines make sure the environment friendly and orderly processing of appeals, contributing to the general integrity and effectiveness of the judicial system. Managing these deadlines strategically, whereas anticipating potential challenges and using out there mechanisms for changes, constitutes a core competency for efficient authorized illustration within the appellate context.

5. Judicial Availability

Judicial availability, a vital issue influencing the appellate division, second division calendar, dictates when judges are current to preside over court docket proceedings, together with oral arguments, movement hearings, and conferences. This availability straight impacts the scheduling of occasions inside the calendar. Trigger and impact are clearly linked: restricted judicial availability necessitates strategic scheduling to keep away from delays and guarantee environment friendly case stream. For instance, if a choose is unavailable as a result of a previous dedication, circumstances assigned to that choose have to be rescheduled, doubtlessly impacting different scheduled occasions and making a ripple impact throughout the calendar. Conversely, durations of excessive judicial availability permit for extra flexibility in scheduling and might facilitate expedited case processing.

The significance of judicial availability as a element of the calendar is underscored by its influence on case administration. Constant judicial presence ensures well timed decision of appeals and minimizes backlogs. Actual-life examples illustrate this significance. A sudden, surprising absence of a choose can disrupt the complete calendar, necessitating adjournments and doubtlessly delaying justice for litigants. Conversely, proactive communication of judicial availability permits for environment friendly scheduling, maximizing the court docket’s capability to handle its caseload. In circumstances involving time-sensitive issues, similar to injunctions or emergency stays, judicial availability turns into paramount. The calendar should accommodate these pressing wants, highlighting the dynamic interaction between judicial availability and the efficient administration of justice.

The sensible significance of understanding judicial availability extends past court docket administration. Authorized professionals depend on this data to plan their schedules, put together for court docket appearances, and handle shopper expectations. Understanding when judges can be found permits for strategic scheduling of motions, oral arguments, and different vital occasions. Moreover, it facilitates environment friendly communication with the court docket and opposing counsel, contributing to a smoother and extra predictable appellate course of. Challenges come up when unexpected circumstances influence judicial availability, similar to sickness or emergencies. These conditions necessitate flexibility and adaptableness inside the court docket system, usually requiring rescheduling and changes to the calendar. Understanding these potential disruptions and their influence on case administration is essential for all stakeholders within the appellate course of.

6. Vacation Observances

Vacation observances play a major position in shaping the appellate division, second division calendar. These observances, encompassing federal, state, and non secular holidays, necessitate cautious consideration throughout calendar building to make sure environment friendly court docket operations whereas respecting established traditions. Understanding how vacation observances intersect with court docket scheduling is crucial for all stakeholders concerned in appellate proceedings.

  • Courtroom Closures

    Vacation observances end in court docket closures, impacting the scheduling of all court docket actions, together with submitting deadlines, movement hearings, and oral arguments. These closures necessitate cautious planning to keep away from disruptions and guarantee well timed case processing. As an illustration, if a submitting deadline falls on a vacation, it’s usually shifted to the subsequent enterprise day. This adjustment requires consciousness from authorized professionals to keep away from lacking vital deadlines and doubtlessly jeopardizing their purchasers’ circumstances.

  • Prolonged Deadlines

    Recognizing the potential influence of court docket closures, the calendar usually incorporates prolonged deadlines for filings and different procedural actions surrounding holidays. This lodging supplies flexibility for authorized professionals and mitigates the danger of default as a result of holiday-related closures. For instance, a submitting deadline falling instantly earlier than a multi-day vacation is likely to be prolonged to offer ample time for submission after the court docket reopens. This proactive strategy facilitates environment friendly case administration and ensures equitable entry to the authorized system.

  • Scheduling Conflicts

    The interaction of vacation observances with usually scheduled court docket periods can create scheduling conflicts. Oral arguments, movement hearings, and different occasions may require rescheduling to keep away from conflicts with holidays. This rescheduling necessitates coordination amongst judges, court docket workers, and authorized professionals to reduce disruption and keep the integrity of the calendar. As an illustration, if a beforehand scheduled oral argument conflicts with a newly declared vacation, the court docket should establish another date that accommodates all concerned events. Efficient communication and adaptability are essential in navigating these scheduling challenges.

  • Affect on Case Processing Time

    Whereas vacation observances contribute to sustaining a balanced work setting, they’ll additionally influence general case processing time. Courtroom closures and adjusted schedules can introduce delays, particularly in time-sensitive circumstances. Understanding this potential influence is crucial for managing shopper expectations and growing life like timelines for case development. For instance, an enchantment filed shortly earlier than a serious vacation interval may expertise a barely longer processing time as a result of lowered court docket exercise through the vacation interval. This delay, whereas usually minor, highlights the sensible influence of vacation observances on the appellate course of.

In conclusion, vacation observances signify an integral issue within the growth and implementation of the appellate division, second division calendar. Cautious consideration of those observances ensures environment friendly court docket operations whereas respecting established traditions. Understanding the influence of court docket closures, prolonged deadlines, potential scheduling conflicts, and their impact on case processing time is crucial for all stakeholders concerned in appellate proceedings. Efficient navigation of those elements contributes to a smoother, extra predictable, and finally extra simply appellate course of.

7. Case Administration

Efficient case administration inside the appellate division, second division, depends closely on the structured framework offered by the court docket calendar. The calendar serves as a central organizing device, facilitating the environment friendly stream of circumstances by way of the appellate course of. Understanding the interaction between case administration practices and the calendar is essential for all stakeholders.

  • Scheduling and Docketing

    The calendar dictates the scheduling of all court docket occasions, together with oral arguments, movement hearings, and conferences. Docketing, the method of recording and monitoring case-related actions, is intrinsically linked to the calendar. Correct docketing ensures that deadlines are met, related paperwork are filed well timed, and circumstances progress effectively. As an illustration, a misdocketed movement may result in missed deadlines and procedural issues, highlighting the significance of exact coordination between case administration practices and the calendar.

  • Prioritization and Time Administration

    Case administration requires prioritization of duties and environment friendly time administration. The calendar supplies the framework for allocating time and sources successfully. Authorized professionals depend on the calendar to anticipate upcoming deadlines, plan case methods, and guarantee satisfactory preparation for court docket appearances. For instance, figuring out the deadlines for submitting briefs and the scheduled date for oral argument permits attorneys to allocate ample time for analysis, writing, and preparation, optimizing their case administration methods.

  • Communication and Coordination

    Efficient communication and coordination are important for profitable case administration. The calendar facilitates communication by offering a shared level of reference for all events concerned in a case. It permits coordinated scheduling of occasions, ensures well timed notification of deadlines, and facilitates environment friendly data alternate between the court docket, authorized professionals, and litigants. As an illustration, the calendar permits the court docket to speak adjustments in scheduling or up to date deadlines to all events concurrently, minimizing confusion and selling transparency.

  • Monitoring and Analysis

    Monitoring case progress and evaluating outcomes are integral facets of case administration. The calendar supplies a priceless device for monitoring case milestones, figuring out potential delays, and assessing the effectiveness of case administration methods. By analyzing case development in opposition to the calendar, court docket directors and authorized professionals can establish bottlenecks, streamline processes, and enhance general effectivity. For instance, monitoring the time elapsed between submitting an enchantment and scheduling oral argument permits for analysis of case processing time and identification of potential areas for enchancment.

In conclusion, efficient case administration inside the appellate division, second division, is inextricably linked to the court docket calendar. The calendar supplies the important framework for scheduling, docketing, prioritization, communication, monitoring, and analysis of circumstances. Understanding this interaction and using the calendar strategically are essential for guaranteeing environment friendly and well timed decision of appellate proceedings. Efficient case administration, guided by the construction of the calendar, finally contributes to the honest and environment friendly administration of justice inside the appellate system.

8. Public Entry

Public entry to the appellate division, second division calendar constitutes a cornerstone of judicial transparency and facilitates public engagement with the appellate course of. This entry permits people and organizations to trace circumstances, perceive court docket schedules, and observe the workings of the appellate system. The next sides illustrate the importance of public entry to this calendar.

  • Transparency and Accountability

    Publicly out there calendars promote transparency by offering perception into court docket operations and scheduling practices. This transparency fosters accountability by permitting the general public to observe case progress and observe judicial workload. For instance, entry to the calendar permits researchers to research case processing instances, contributing to a greater understanding of judicial effectivity. This transparency may establish potential systemic points, similar to undue delays or uneven distribution of circumstances, prompting crucial reforms and contributing to a extra accountable judicial system.

  • Facilitating Authorized Analysis and Evaluation

    The calendar serves as a priceless useful resource for authorized professionals, researchers, and journalists looking for details about appellate proceedings. Entry to scheduled hearings, oral argument dates, and determination releases facilitates authorized analysis, evaluation of case developments, and reporting on judicial developments. As an illustration, authorized students can use the calendar to trace particular sorts of circumstances, analyze their development by way of the appellate system, and draw conclusions about evolving authorized doctrines. This entry permits knowledgeable evaluation and contributes to a deeper understanding of authorized precedent.

  • Supporting Knowledgeable Public Discourse

    Public entry to the calendar empowers knowledgeable public discourse on authorized issues. By understanding court docket schedules and case development, people can comply with circumstances of curiosity, interact in knowledgeable discussions about authorized points, and kind reasoned opinions about judicial choices. For instance, public entry to the calendar permits residents to trace appeals associated to important public coverage points, fostering knowledgeable civic engagement and contributing to a extra strong public discourse surrounding these points.

  • Sensible Utility for Litigants and Practitioners

    Past selling transparency and facilitating analysis, the calendar affords sensible utility for litigants and authorized practitioners. Entry to the calendar permits litigants to trace their very own circumstances, anticipate upcoming deadlines, and plan accordingly. Authorized professionals depend on the calendar for scheduling court docket appearances, managing caseloads, and coordinating with opposing counsel. This accessibility streamlines communication, reduces uncertainty, and promotes effectivity inside the appellate course of. For instance, a lawyer can use the calendar to verify listening to dates, avoiding scheduling conflicts and guaranteeing well timed illustration for his or her shopper.

In conclusion, public entry to the appellate division, second division calendar serves as an important bridge between the judicial system and the general public. By fostering transparency, facilitating analysis, supporting knowledgeable discourse, and offering sensible utility for stakeholders, this entry enhances public understanding of and engagement with the appellate course of. This accessibility finally contributes to a extra clear, accountable, and accessible judicial system, benefiting each the authorized group and the general public it serves.

Steadily Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the Appellate Division, Second Division court docket calendar, offering concise and informative responses.

Query 1: The place can the calendar be accessed?

The calendar is often out there on-line by way of the New York State Unified Courtroom System’s web site. Direct hyperlinks and entry factors might also be out there by way of the Second Division’s particular webpage.

Query 2: How continuously is the calendar up to date?

The calendar is up to date usually to replicate adjustments in court docket schedules, judicial assignments, and case proceedings. Whereas updates are frequent, consulting the calendar usually is advisable to make sure entry to probably the most present data.

Query 3: What data does the calendar comprise?

The calendar supplies particulars on court docket periods, oral argument schedules, movement deadlines, vacation observances, and different related data pertaining to the operation of the Appellate Division, Second Division.

Query 4: How can adjustments to the calendar be tracked?

Frequently checking the web calendar is the simplest method to monitor adjustments. Some court docket techniques might also supply notification providers for important calendar updates, although availability varies.

Query 5: What are the implications of lacking a deadline listed on the calendar?

Lacking a deadline can have severe penalties, doubtlessly resulting in sanctions, dismissal of motions, or hostile outcomes in appellate proceedings. Immediate communication with the court docket is essential in circumstances of unexpected circumstances affecting adherence to deadlines.

Query 6: How can one inquire about particular scheduling issues or request clarification on calendar entries?

Inquiries concerning particular scheduling issues or calendar entries must be directed to the Clerk’s Workplace of the Appellate Division, Second Division. Contact data is often out there on the court docket’s web site.

Understanding the court docket calendar and its implications is crucial for efficient engagement with the appellate course of. Frequently consulting the calendar and speaking with the court docket when crucial contribute to environment friendly and knowledgeable participation in appellate proceedings.

This concludes the FAQ part. The next sections will delve additional into particular facets of the appellate course of inside the Second Division.

Suggestions for Using the Appellate Division, Second Division Courtroom Calendar

Efficient engagement with the appellate course of requires strategic use of the court docket calendar. The next ideas present steering for navigating the calendar and maximizing its utility.

Tip 1: Common Session:

Frequently consulting the calendar is paramount. Frequent assessment permits for proactive identification of deadlines, court docket periods, and different vital dates, facilitating well timed preparation and stopping inadvertent omissions. Checking the calendar weekly, or much more continuously in time-sensitive issues, is advisable.

Tip 2: Setting Reminders:

Calendar entries, together with deadlines and listening to dates, must be built-in into private or skilled calendaring techniques. Setting reminders ensures well timed notifications, mitigating the danger of missed deadlines and facilitating immediate motion. Automated reminders can additional improve effectivity.

Tip 3: Understanding Notational Conventions:

Familiarization with notational conventions used inside the calendar is crucial for correct interpretation. Understanding abbreviations, codes, and particular terminology prevents misinterpretations and ensures clear comprehension of scheduled occasions. Consulting the court docket’s glossary or looking for clarification from court docket workers can improve comprehension.

Tip 4: Anticipating Delays:

Whereas the calendar supplies a structured framework, unexpected circumstances can result in delays. Constructing flexibility into schedules and anticipating potential adjournments or rescheduling permits for proactive adaptation and minimizes disruption. Sustaining communication with the court docket and opposing counsel is essential for navigating potential delays successfully.

Tip 5: Leveraging On-line Assets:

Using on-line sources, together with the court docket’s web site and digital submitting techniques, enhances effectivity. On-line entry facilitates real-time calendar updates, digital submitting of paperwork, and retrieval of case data. Leveraging these sources streamlines processes and promotes well timed adherence to deadlines.

Tip 6: Coordinating with Courtroom Workers:

Direct communication with court docket workers can show invaluable for clarifying scheduling questions, addressing procedural uncertainties, or looking for steering on particular calendar-related issues. Leveraging the experience of court docket personnel ensures correct interpretation and facilitates easy navigation of the appellate course of.

Tip 7: Strategic Scheduling:

Strategic scheduling of motions, filings, and different actions can maximize influence and decrease delays. Contemplating court docket schedules, judicial availability, and opposing counsel’s schedules when planning actions contributes to environment friendly case administration and optimizes authorized technique.

By implementing these methods, authorized professionals and litigants can successfully navigate the complexities of the court docket calendar, guaranteeing well timed filings, preparedness for court docket appearances, and environment friendly administration of appellate proceedings. These proactive measures contribute considerably to profitable outcomes within the appellate course of.

The following pointers supply sensible steering for using the court docket calendar successfully. The next conclusion summarizes the important thing takeaways and reinforces the significance of partaking with the appellate calendar strategically.

Conclusion

The appellate division, second division calendar supplies a vital framework for navigating the complexities of the appellate course of inside its designated jurisdiction. This structured schedule governs case stream, dictates deadlines, and ensures the environment friendly operation of the court docket. Understanding its elements, together with court docket periods, movement schedules, oral argument dates, submission deadlines, judicial availability, vacation observances, case administration protocols, and public entry mechanisms, is crucial for all stakeholders. Efficient utilization of this calendar requires proactive engagement, meticulous consideration to element, and strategic planning.

The calendar’s significance extends past mere scheduling. It represents a dedication to transparency, accountability, and accessibility inside the judicial system. Strategic engagement with the calendar empowers authorized professionals and litigants to navigate the appellate course of successfully, contributing to a extra simply and environment friendly decision of appeals. Continued emphasis on accessible and well-maintained court docket calendars stays essential for upholding the rules of equity, effectivity, and transparency inside the appellate system.