In the upcoming election (Nov. 3, 2026), sixty-two California Court of Appeal Justices statewide will be on the ballot for retention elections as will two Supreme Court Justices (Groban and Evans). (See Ballotpedia’s CA Intermediate appellate court elections 2026 page
Southern California Appellate News
Southern California Appellate News, blogged by Benjamin G. Shatz, focuses on appellate law developments primarily in California. It covers topics such as appellate procedure, published and unpublished opinions, standards for appellate briefs, and court rules including citation and compliance requirements. The blog discusses appellate issues across various legal areas including commercial litigation, entertainment, copyright, employment, real estate, land use, banking, insurance, product liability, professional liability, wrongful death, punitive damages, class actions, unfair competition, and anti-SLAPP motions. It also addresses judicial appointments, court programs, and procedural updates relevant to appellate practitioners.
Blog Authors
Latest from Southern California Appellate News
Appellatey roundup
The DJ has Myron Moskovitz’s Working, Part 5: Adding meat to the bones with ‘AOB 2’ — In the latest installment of his brief-writing series, Myron Moskovitz explains how he builds an appellate opening brief by assembling key portions of…
Federal news
Law360 has AI Flubs, More Secure PACER Get Judiciary Forum SpotlightLaw360 also has Newman Saga Prompts Bill To Limit Judicial Suspensions — The long-running saga over Federal Circuit Judge Pauline Newman’s fitness to remain on the court has exposed…
RIP Justice Kennard (1941-2026)
The Daily Journal has Joyce L. Kennard, 1941 – 2026 — Retired justice, who rose from childhood poverty and wartime internment to become the first Asian American on California’s highest court, was known during her 25-year tenure for her independence,…
J.Sanchez to retire
Justice Maurice Sanchez to retire from the California Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division ThreeAssociate Justice Maurice Sanchez of the California Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division Three, will retire on October 2, 2026, after a remarkable and distinguished…
Tung lashing?
Today’s DJ has 9th Circuit Judge Tung makes his mark with pointed dissents — Less than a year after joining the 9th Circuit, Trump appointee Eric C. Tung has repeatedly challenged his colleagues in sharply worded dissents on immigration and…
Monetizing SCOTUSblog
“SCOTUSblog Plus” — All the coverage from those who know the court best. Join SCOTUSblog Plus.For nearly a quarter-century, SCOTUSblog has been the go-to authority on the Supreme Court. Plus takes our unmatched…
Wiggling out of appellate bonding
Appellate Specialist Dan Barer points out today’s published opinion on avoiding bonding:In Guzman v. Superior Court
(Wigle), published today, the 3d DCA affirms an order granting
relief under CCP § 995.240—giving courts discretion to waive a bond provision
if the…
4/1 seeks Clerk/XO
The Fourth Appellate District Court of Appeal, Division One, located in downtown San Diego, is accepting applications for the position…
Appellate lawyers moving around more than ever
Law.com has SCOTUS Litigator Demand Surges in Big Law, Amid Partner Shuffle in Top Firms — At least seven law firms have announced hires within their Supreme Court and appellate practices since the beginning of 2025, and recruiters say they…