Meeting of the Student Legal Consultation Center “Central Legal Clinic”
On October 23, 2025, the Student Legal Consultation Center “Central Legal Clinic” held a meeting at the Prince Volodymyr the Great Educational and Research Institute of Law at IAPM. The session focused on appellate proceedings in civil cases, with a discussion on the practical aspects of drafting an appeal in civil procedure.
During the meeting, student clinicians reviewed the basic principles of civil procedural law related to appeals, including the concept of an appeal, grounds for filing it, procedural time limits, and general filing requirements. Particular attention was given to formulating appellate arguments and distinguishing between appeal and cassation proceedings.
Together with the head of the legal clinic, students analyzed common mistakes in legal reasoning, such as unclear objections or weak connections between arguments and evidence. They also practiced developing clear and concise legal arguments supported by legislation and case law.
The head of the legal clinic, Anastasiia Ternavska, explained how to properly reference evidence in an appeal and described the documents that must be attached, including a copy of the court decision, supporting evidence, a power of attorney when required, and proof of court fee payment, along with a list of attached materials.
Participants also discussed the deadlines and procedure for submitting an appeal to the appellate court, including the use of the electronic court system, court fee payment, and the consequences of missing procedural deadlines. The session highlighted common practical mistakes in appeal drafting, such as excessive emotional language, lack of logical consistency between arguments and evidence, and misunderstanding the subject of the appeal.
The second part of the meeting was devoted to practical exercises. Working in pairs, students drafted appeals based on hypothetical court decisions. This format helped them improve the structure of their legal arguments and develop critical skills in reviewing legal documents.
As a result of the session, template materials and checklists for drafting appeals were prepared for future use by student clinicians. The legal clinic plans to continue its series of practical seminars on procedural skills, including topics such as presenting evidence at the appellate stage, preparing for oral hearings, and drafting cassation appeals.
Students of the Institute are encouraged to join the activities of the legal clinic. Participation in practical sessions provides an opportunity to improve legal drafting skills and gain hands-on experience working with clients under the supervision of practicing legal professionals. Information about upcoming events and participation conditions is available at the Student Legal Consultation Center “Central Legal Clinic” (Building 7, Room 205a).
