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 overlaying a particular geographic area of New York State manages the move of appeals from numerous trial courts. This schedule sometimes outlines case arguments, movement hearings, and different court docket proceedings, offering construction and predictability for authorized professionals and the general public. As an example, a particular date and time could be assigned for an attraction 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 arrange their circumstances successfully, ensures well timed decision of appeals, and allows people and organizations to trace the progress of related authorized issues. Traditionally, these schedules had been primarily bodily paperwork, however digital accessibility has significantly expanded public entry and enhanced the court docket’s operational effectivity.

Understanding this procedural framework affords invaluable context for deciphering 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 Periods

Courtroom classes 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 classes, offering a framework for the orderly processing of appeals. This structured method ensures environment friendly use of judicial assets and permits authorized professionals to plan their schedules accordingly. As an example, the calendar would possibly 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 assets successfully.

The connection between court docket classes and the calendar is one among 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 classes inside the calendar enable for targeted consideration on particular case sorts, contributing to a extra environment friendly and thorough authorized course of. For instance, dedicating particular classes to advanced business appeals permits for uninterrupted judicial consideration of intricate authorized arguments.

In essence, court docket classes 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. Nonetheless, the established framework of the calendar serves as a important 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 move of authorized proceedings. A cause-and-effect relationship exists: adherence to movement schedules straight impacts case development. As an example, failure to file a movement inside the designated timeframe may result in its dismissal, impacting the appellant’s capacity 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 attraction.

The significance of movement schedules as a part of the calendar can’t be overstated. They function a important organizational device, guaranteeing the court docket can handle its caseload successfully. Think about a state of affairs the place a number of events file motions in a fancy attraction. 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. Legal professionals 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 would possibly strategically file a movement near a key deadline, doubtlessly limiting the opposing celebration’s time to formulate a complete response.

In abstract, movement schedules are a basic factor 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 attributable to 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, printed inside the appellate division, second division calendar, characterize 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 perform 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 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 arrange arguments, coordinate schedules, and guarantee all mandatory supplies are available for presentation to the appellate panel. For instance, a fancy business attraction could also be allotted an extended oral argument slot than a much less intricate matter. This scheduling nuance displays the court docket’s have to steadiness thorough consideration with environment friendly case administration.

  • Preparation and Presentation

    Oral argument classes necessitate meticulous preparation. Authorized groups analyze case data, refine authorized arguments, and anticipate potential questions from the appellate panel. This preparation typically entails mock arguments and in depth analysis to make sure a persuasive and well-informed presentation. The allotted time for oral argument is usually restricted, requiring concise and impactful supply of key factors. As an example, an lawyer would possibly concentrate on addressing perceived weaknesses of their written temporary, utilizing the oral argument as a possibility to straight interact with the panel’s considerations.

  • Judicial Interplay and Clarification

    Oral argument supplies a novel alternative for direct interplay between the appellate panel and authorized counsel. Judges typically 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 decide’s query a couple of particular precedent can enable an lawyer to exhibit its relevance or distinguish it from the current case.

  • Impression 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 sturdy 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 resolution.

In conclusion, oral argument dates inside the appellate division, second division calendar, characterize 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 legislation. 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 important 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 observe.

  • 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 vital repercussions, doubtlessly resulting in sanctions and even dismissal of the attraction. As an example, 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 satisfy movement deadlines can prejudice a celebration’s authorized standing. For instance, a movement to dismiss filed after the designated deadline is perhaps deemed premature and summarily rejected by the court docket.

  • File on Enchantment

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

  • Extensions and Adjournments

    Whereas strict adherence to deadlines is paramount, the calendar additionally supplies mechanisms for requesting extensions or adjournments. These requests should be made formally and are topic to the court docket’s discretion. Justifications for extensions sometimes 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 short would possibly 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 prime to profitable appellate observe. 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 important 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 move. For instance, if a decide is unavailable attributable to a previous dedication, circumstances assigned to that decide should be rescheduled, doubtlessly impacting different scheduled occasions and making a ripple impact throughout the calendar. Conversely, durations of excessive judicial availability enable for extra flexibility in scheduling and may facilitate expedited case processing.

The significance of judicial availability as a part 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, sudden absence of a decide 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, comparable 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 info to plan their schedules, put together for court docket appearances, and handle consumer expectations. Figuring out when judges can be found permits for strategic scheduling of motions, oral arguments, and different important 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, comparable to sickness or emergencies. These conditions necessitate flexibility and flexibility inside the court docket system, typically 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 big position in shaping the appellate division, second division calendar. These observances, encompassing federal, state, and spiritual 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 example, if a submitting deadline falls on a vacation, it’s sometimes shifted to the following enterprise day. This adjustment requires consciousness from authorized professionals to keep away from lacking important deadlines and doubtlessly jeopardizing their shoppers’ circumstances.

  • Prolonged Deadlines

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

  • Scheduling Conflicts

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

  • Impression on Case Processing Time

    Whereas vacation observances contribute to sustaining a balanced work surroundings, they will additionally influence total case processing time. Courtroom closures and adjusted schedules can introduce delays, particularly in time-sensitive circumstances. Understanding this potential influence is crucial for managing consumer expectations and creating life like timelines for case development. For instance, an attraction filed shortly earlier than a significant vacation interval would possibly expertise a barely longer processing time attributable to decreased court docket exercise throughout the vacation interval. This delay, whereas sometimes minor, highlights the sensible influence of vacation observances on the appellate course of.

In conclusion, vacation observances characterize an integral issue within the improvement 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 in the end 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 move of circumstances by 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 example, 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 assets successfully. Authorized professionals depend on the calendar to anticipate upcoming deadlines, plan case methods, and guarantee ample preparation for court docket appearances. For instance, understanding 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 allows coordinated scheduling of occasions, ensures well timed notification of deadlines, and facilitates environment friendly info alternate between the court docket, authorized professionals, and litigants. As an example, the calendar permits the court docket to speak modifications 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 features of case administration. The calendar supplies a invaluable 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 determine bottlenecks, streamline processes, and enhance total effectivity. For instance, monitoring the time elapsed between submitting an attraction 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, in the end contributes to the truthful 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 aspects 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 watch case progress and observe judicial workload. For instance, entry to the calendar permits researchers to investigate case processing instances, contributing to a greater understanding of judicial effectivity. This transparency may determine potential systemic points, comparable to undue delays or uneven distribution of circumstances, prompting mandatory reforms and contributing to a extra accountable judicial system.

  • Facilitating Authorized Analysis and Evaluation

    The calendar serves as a invaluable useful resource for authorized professionals, researchers, and journalists in search of details about appellate proceedings. Entry to scheduled hearings, oral argument dates, and resolution releases facilitates authorized analysis, evaluation of case traits, and reporting on judicial developments. As an example, authorized students can use the calendar to trace particular forms of circumstances, analyze their development by the appellate system, and draw conclusions about evolving authorized doctrines. This entry allows 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 observe circumstances of curiosity, interact in knowledgeable discussions about authorized points, and type reasoned opinions about judicial selections. For instance, public entry to the calendar permits residents to trace appeals associated to vital 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 substantiate listening to dates, avoiding scheduling conflicts and guaranteeing well timed illustration for his or her consumer.

In conclusion, public entry to the appellate division, second division calendar serves as a significant 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 in the end contributes to a extra clear, accountable, and accessible judicial system, benefiting each the authorized group and the general public it serves.

Continuously Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to 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 usually out there on-line by the New York State Unified Courtroom System’s web site. Direct hyperlinks and entry factors may additionally be out there by the Second Division’s particular webpage.

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

The calendar is up to date commonly to replicate modifications in court docket schedules, judicial assignments, and case proceedings. Whereas updates are frequent, consulting the calendar commonly is advisable to make sure entry to essentially the most present info.

Query 3: What info does the calendar include?

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

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

Commonly checking the web calendar is the best method to monitor modifications. Some court docket techniques may additionally provide notification providers for vital calendar updates, although availability varies.

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

Lacking a deadline can have critical penalties, doubtlessly resulting in sanctions, dismissal of motions, or opposed 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 relating to particular scheduling issues or calendar entries ought to be directed to the Clerk’s Workplace of the Appellate Division, Second Division. Contact info is usually 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. Commonly consulting the calendar and speaking with the court docket when mandatory contribute to environment friendly and knowledgeable participation in appellate proceedings.

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

Ideas 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 steerage for navigating the calendar and maximizing its utility.

Tip 1: Common Session:

Commonly consulting the calendar is paramount. Frequent overview permits for proactive identification of deadlines, court docket classes, and different important dates, facilitating well timed preparation and stopping inadvertent omissions. Checking the calendar weekly, or much more often in time-sensitive issues, is advisable.

Tip 2: Setting Reminders:

Calendar entries, together with deadlines and listening to dates, ought to be built-in into private or skilled calendaring techniques. Setting reminders ensures well timed notifications, mitigating the chance 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 in search of 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 assets, 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 info. Leveraging these assets streamlines processes and promotes well timed adherence to deadlines.

Tip 6: Coordinating with Courtroom Employees:

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

Tip 7: Strategic Scheduling:

Strategic scheduling of motions, filings, and different actions can maximize influence and reduce 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 tips provide sensible steerage for using the court docket calendar successfully. The next conclusion summarizes the important thing takeaways and reinforces the significance of participating with the appellate calendar strategically.

Conclusion

The appellate division, second division calendar supplies an important framework for navigating the complexities of the appellate course of inside its designated jurisdiction. This structured schedule governs case move, dictates deadlines, and ensures the environment friendly operation of the court docket. Understanding its elements, together with court docket classes, 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 ideas of equity, effectivity, and transparency inside the appellate system.