A Brief Review

A Connecticut Appellate Law Blog

Appeals are complex, but understanding them does not have to be. This blog offers clear and concise insights into Connecticut’s appellate landscape, from case updates and procedural tips to broader discussions about the legal system. Whether you are a trial attorney looking for quick takeaways or someone who is curious about how appeals work, this is a place to stay informed—and maybe even enjoy the process along the way. 


  • Connecticut Supreme Court Clarifies Workers’ Compensation Insurance Policy Cancellation Rules 

    An Insurer’s Conduct Can Render a Cancellation Notice Ambiguous  An insurer’s conduct can render a cancellation notice that otherwise complies with General Statutes § 31-348 indefinite, uncertain, and ambiguous. This decision from the Connecticut Supreme Court highlights the importance of clarity in cancellations and provides guidance for attorneys handling such cases.  Case Background Thomas Napolitano, doing […]

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  • Why Alternative Grounds for Affirmance Matter for Appellees

    What happens when the trial court’s reasoning falters on appeal? For appellees, alternative grounds for affirmance can save the day.  Appellees must consider all possible bases for affirmance, including those not relied on by the trial court. By raising and briefing alternative grounds, appellees provide appellate courts with additional paths to uphold a decision.  The […]

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  • Navigating the 2025 Updates to Connecticut’s Appellate Rules

    As we step into 2025, appellate practitioners and litigants in Connecticut must familiarize themselves with the amendments to the Rules of Appellate Procedure. These changes, effective January 1, 2025 (with some provisions effective October 1, 2024), reflect the judiciary’s effort to modernize appellate practice and streamline processes for both counsel and self-represented litigants.  Noteworthy Updates […]

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  • Welcome to “A Brief Review: A Connecticut Appellate Law Blog”

    Welcome to A Brief Review: A Connecticut Appellate Law Blog. I am excited to launch this new resource dedicated to sharing insights, updates, and reflections on Connecticut’s appellate system.  The appellate process can feel like uncharted territory for trial attorneys and their clients. This blog aims to shed light on that process and offers:  I […]

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