A non-profit law firm providing quality legal representation and supporting the appellate defense community in the fight for justice.
Featured Resources
Appellate Practice Manual
ADI’s treatise on appellate procedure for appointed attorneys.
Forms & Samples
Commonly used forms tailored to Fourth District practice.
Fourth District Practice
A summary of Fourth Appellate District practices, policies, and procedures.
Fourth District Filing & Service
Summary of filing requirements for briefs and other documents in non-capital criminal and juvenile cases in California Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
Statewide Claims Manual
California’s line by line instructions for filing compensation claims.
Claims Portal
ADI’s claims portal for appointed counsel to submit, review and check the status of claims.
ADI strives to provide quality resources to facilitate excellent indigent representation in California appeals.
Access to MCLE materials and confidential legal resources is contingent on an active membership with one of the project panels.
How to Become a Panel Attorney
ADI regularly accepts applications for both our criminal and dependency panels. We value quality applicants who have a demonstrated dedication to indigent defense work, strong writing skills, and a willingness to be a zealous advocate for clients.
News
- Augment Motions in Division One
- Requests for Transmission of Exhibits & Sealed Records in Division Three
- MCLE Opportunities
- ADI Website Updates
Events
Writing to Win
May 20, 2026 from noon to 1:00 p.m. | Remote
Join ADI staff attorneys Deanna Lopas and Christine Johnson for this MCLE. The program will discuss how to use the essential components of introductions, headings, and conclusions to frame your issue, tell a cohesive story, and leave a lasting impression upon the court.
About ADI
Appellate Defenders, Inc., is a non-profit law firm administering the appointed counsel system for the California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District.