I Just Filed My 65th Legal Brief

I can’t believe I just filed my 65th appellate brief! As an appellate attorney specializing in family and child welfare law, I file briefs with the 1st and 2nd Judicial Departments in New York on all sorts of issues –divorce, child custody, child support, orders of protection, attorney’s fees, child neglection, order of protection, and termination of parental rights, just to name a few.

Filing brief number 65 feels like a big milestone in my legal career. I remember drafting my very first brief as a young attorney, feeling overwhelmed and wondering if I was even capable of putting together a convincing legal argument. Now, many years and many briefs later, the process feels almost second nature.

When I sit down to draft a new appellate brief, the legal analysis and argument flows easily from research and experience. Of course, each new case presents unique facts to analyze and apply to the law, which keeps things interesting. But my writing and analytical skills have strengthened tremendously over time.

Reaching this 65th brief milestone makes me reflect on how much I’ve grown as an attorney. I feel incredibly grateful to do work I’m passionate about while helping parents, children and families navigate the complex legal system. I look forward to seeing what the next 65 briefs will bring!

I’m thrilled to have hit this milestone in my appellate legal career. Now it’s time to get started on brief number 66!

If you would like to consult on your appellate brief or your firm’s appellate needs, please reach out to Helene Bernstein, Managing Attorney.