Appellate Judgment Writing, June 2026, Sydney

The NJCA Appellate Judgment Writing, WBJ IV, is the final program in the NJCA’s Pathway for Excellence in Judgment Writing. It is by invitation only.

This program is designed to strengthen the analytical, structural and writing skills of appellate judges. Through expert-led presentations, peer discussions, and practical experiential workshops, the program emphasises the art of crafting judgments that are coherent and authoritative, and that uphold the highest standards of legal reasoning and judicial integrity.

Along with our deeply experienced program Chair, the Honourable Susan Kiefel AC KC and program committee members, guest presenters will include the Hon John Basten AO KC, the Hon Virginia Bell AC SC, the Hon Fabian Gleeson SC, Justice Rob Mitchell, Justice Nye Perram, Chief Justice Andrew Bell and Acting Justice John Griffith.

The appellate courts play a pivotal role in shaping legal principles, ensuring consistency in the application of law, and safeguarding justice through well-reasoned judgments. Decisions set binding precedents that guide lower courts, and Australian society at large.

The judicial learning outcomes of this program are judge-centric; practical and readily usable knowledge and skills targeted at improving the confidence, writing ability and productivity of individual appellate judges.

The appeal courts sit at the apex of individual court jurisdiction and are thus critical in reflecting societal expectations and public confidence in the courts. Appellate courts “speak” through its judgments as they are records of the legal, social and political history of the time.

This program will cover issues such as how to:

• effectively prepare for an appeal by identifying key issues, analysing relevant materials, and developing a structured approach to the case
• differentiate between the core elements of trial and appeal judgments, and understand the specific constraints and objectives of appellate writing
• employ effective communication and collaboration techniques in their interactions with fellow judges, both before and after the appeal hearing
• identify and apply the essential elements of a sound appeal judgment, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and comprehensive legal reasoning
• determine when a short judgment is appropriate and apply techniques for writing clear and concise judgments while ensuring all essential legal points are addressed
• develop and implement effective strategies for planning, structuring, and writing complex appeal judgments
• discern when a concurring judgment is necessary and write one that effectively contributes to the court’s decision while maintaining collegiality
• write dissenting judgments that clearly articulate their disagreement in a respectful and constructive manner, contributing to legal development.
• explore the complexities of criticizing other judgments, handle all grounds of appeal, and address issues related to judicial delay

This is a residential program for all participants.

Included is accommodation for two nights, including breakfast, all day catering and dinner on the Thursday evening.

We welcome communication with those living in Sydney who wish to commute.

Travel is not included.