FIRST DISTRICT APPELLATE PROJECT
Want to build an appellate practice? Join us on May 21 for a one-hour online panel discussion about how to develop a court-appointed appellate practice in which you can help shape the law, advocate for indigent clients, and enjoy greater work-life balance.
Proposed Panel Attorney Hourly Rate Increase in the Works
The Governor’s proposed budget announced in January included a proposed $25/hour raise for attorneys accepting court-appointed appeals in California. If adopted, it would raise rates to $145, $155, and $165/hour, for cases appointed on or after July 1, 2026. We are quite optimistic that this increase will make it into the final state budget and we will update this space when we learn more in the coming weeks.
Join us on October 10 to meet with colleagues in person, hear from some great speakers, and connect with the appellate indigent representation community. Additional details provided in the seminar brochure. Refreshments and lunch provided.
This year’s seminar will have criminal and dependency break out sessions and joint sessions, including a conversation with Justice Monique Langhorne Wilson and Justice Charles A. Smiley. Visit our events page for details and to register.
You don’t have to be a partner in Big Law to be an appellate rockstar. With an appellate indigent-representation practice, you can set your own hours, fight for justice, and have the prestige of an appellate practice. Join FDAP’s panel of contracted attorneys accepting appointments to represent indigent parties in the California Court of Appeal and the California Supreme Court.
Applicants should have exceptional writing and analytic skills, as well as a commitment to indigent appellate representation. While expertise in a relevant practice area (e.g. criminal law or dependency law) is an asset, it is neither sufficient, nor a prerequisite. For more information, visit our panel application information page or contact FDAP directly.
FDAP May 2026 Panel Bulletin
Read on for important information about sending legal mail to county jails, a new practice guide on communicating with clients ...
FDAP April 2026 Panel Bulletin
Read on for important information about new panel members, upcoming trainings, and recent First District panel victories. Welcome to New ...
Interested in becoming an appellate attorney? Visit our Pathways to an Appellate Practice section for details on
- becoming a panel attorney;
- FDAP’s Associate Staff Attorney Program; and
- law student opportunities.
A171034
The Court of Appeal vacated the restitution fine because, under PC 1465.9(d), more than 10 years had expired since the fine was imposed. The court also vacated the AIDS education fee, originally imposed under PC 264(b), because it has since been repealed.