More Appellate Practice news More news in Michigan Find Appellate Practice lawyers in Michigan
On September 24, 2025, the Michigan appellate practice landscape saw significant changes with the implementation of new rules and procedures aimed at streamlining the appellate process and enhancing access to justice for all parties involved.One of the most notable changes is the adoption of electronic filing for all appellate documents. In an effort to modernize the appellate system and improve efficiency, the Michigan Court of Appeals has mandated that all filings must now be submitted electronically through the court's online portal. This move is expected to speed up the processing of appeals and reduce the amount of time and resources spent on physical filings.Additionally, the Michigan Supreme Court has revised the rules governing appellate briefs to encourage more concise and focused arguments. Under the new rules, appellants are required to limit their briefs to a maximum of 25 pages, while appellees are limited to 20 pages. This change is intended to promote clearer and more effective advocacy, while also reducing the burden on judges and court staff who review these documents.In another significant development, the Michigan Court of Appeals has expanded the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in appellate cases. Parties will now have the option to participate in mediation or arbitration to resolve their disputes before proceeding to a formal appeal. This new initiative is expected to help parties reach faster and more cost-effective resolutions, while also reducing the backlog of cases in the appellate courts.Overall, these changes are aimed at improving the appellate practice experience in Michigan, making the process more efficient, accessible, and fair for all parties involved. Legal practitioners, litigants, and judges are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new rules and procedures to ensure compliance and optimize their appellate practice experience in the state.