Training and Resources

MAACS currently works with interns to support its mission in appellate representation. These interns will review transcripts, research legal issues, organize discovery, attend client interviews, and assist with other aspects of representation.

To request intern assistance, complete this form and submit it to sfarkas@sado.org. After review, Ms. Farkas will assign an intern to your case, and they will contact you directly.

In addition to its regular, annual fall trainings, Virtual Case Rounds are offered every other week to MAACS attorneys. Case Rounds allow attorneys to meet virtually with their colleagues to discuss case issues, brainstorm, strategize, and offer advice from the comfort of their homes or offices. Each session begins with a brief discussion on a specified topic.

Participation is limited to MAACS roster attorneys, and size may be limited. Registration information is provided via email. All that is needed to participate is a computer or mobile device with a camera and a microphone. Sessions typically last about an hour, and MAACS CLE credit is available. If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Jacqueline McCann (jmccann@sado.org) or Alanna O'Rourke (aorourke@sado.org). 

MAACS roster attorneys who are assigned to represent people in a Motion for Relief from Judgment (6.500 motion) are eligible to obtain investigative assistance through The 6.500 Freedom Project, a program funded by a generous grant from the Michigan Justice Fund. To request investigative assistance, please complete this form and send it to MAACS Administrator and Deputy Director, Keeley Blanchard, at kblanchard@sado.org.

MAACS attorneys who seek funding for expert/investigative assistance should contact the corresponding contact from this list. For additional help, contact your MIDC Regional Manager.

All roster attorneys must complete at least 12 hours of continuing legal education (CLE) training per calendar year. See 9.20.17 MAACS Regulations Section II.D.2. CLE hours in addition to the 12 required annual hours cannot be carried over into the next year. You can access the MAACS CLE form here.

MAACS and CDRC are committed to providing high quality training opportunities to members of the roster. Both online and in-person trainings are offered throughout the calendar year. Most trainings are recorded and available in SADO's video library, which you must be a subscriber to view. If you need login credentials, please contact CDRC at CDRC@sado.org.

Motions to Remand 101 (2010)
Litigating Ineffective Assistance of Counsel Claims Day 1 and Day 2 (2017)
How to Get a Ginther Hearing (2017)

Word Processing Resources
Paginating an Appellate Brief in Microsoft Word (for PC)
Paginating an Appellate Brief in Microsoft Word (for Mac)
Creating an Index of Authorities Using Westlaw's Drafting Assistant
Creating Tab/Dot Leaders for a Microsoft Word Document

SADO and MAACS host an annual Appellate Writing Workshop designed for appointed criminal appellate practitioners. Participants have rated the conference extremely well, remarking:

"The seminar was life-altering for me. I learned new ways to analyze my cases, to write briefs, and to prepare for oral arguments, as well as new methods to develop and maintain good client relationships."

"Every one of the instructors was kind, knowledgeable, and seemed eager to help us become better appellate attorneys. Their energy made it enjoyable to be there, even on a Saturday morning."

"I had an amazing time."

"It was well worth my time to attend, and I look forward to future conferences."

"I can't say enough positive things about my experience in this workshop. I actually sent a text message to a friend on the MAACS list telling her to make sure she signs up next time the workshop is offered before leaving the parking lot Saturday after the training!"