California Academy of Appellate Lawyers

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The California Academy of Appellate Lawyers is a statewide organization of experienced appellate practitioners. It was launched in 1972 by Ellis J. Horvitz and then-Presiding Justice Otto Kaus of the Second Appellate District, and was originally known as the Appellate Lawyers Eating and Drinking Association. It is the oldest lawyers' organization in the United States dedicated solely to the practice of appellate law.^{[citation needed]}

The primary purpose of the academy is to provide an informal setting in which judges and lawyers can meet and discuss appellate practice. In addition, the Academy has an amicus curiae committee which files amicus briefs in cases involving issues of appellate practice which are considered to be important. The Academy also offers educational programs at the state's annual bar meetings.

Membership in the Academy is decided by a majority vote of existing members. Applicants must have a minimum of ten years of practice, must have served as lead counsel in no fewer than 25 appeals or writ proceedings, and must have orally argued at least 15 appeals or writs. The application process includes recommendations from co-counsel, judges, and former opponents.