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An Empirical Investigation Into Appellate Structure And The Perceived Quality Of Appellate Review, Jonathan R. Nash, Rafael I. Pardo

Vanderbilt Law Review

What is the ideal structure for appellate review? Without providing a definitive answer to the question, commentators have suggested several factors that may improve the process, and thus perhaps the accuracy, of appellate review. First, it is said that panels of judges are preferable to review by a single judge. Second, expertise in the relevant area of law is a benefit. Third, other indicia of lawfinding ability-such as the ability of lawyers and judges to focus on legal issues without the distraction of factual conflicts and the amenability of judges' schedules to careful contemplation and reflection-contribute to the quality of …