Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Watford to Chair The Appellate Project

 

As a former judge on the Ninth Circuit, I witnessed the influence appellate courts wield and the negative consequences that arise when our appellate courts do not reflect the communities whose lives they touch. I saw firsthand how the appellate bar remains an insular world, one often accessible only to those with long-standing networks and institutional advantages.
Your gift today will help change that reality.
As I assume the role of Board Chair at The Appellate Project, I remain committed to building an appellate system that truly represents all of us. TAP is already making real progress by empowering law students and young professionals with the mentorship, training, and community they need to thrive in appellate practice.

Will you join me in advancing this effort? Your gift of $50, $100, $250, or more will deliver the coaching, connection, and opportunity that tomorrow’s appellate leaders need. Every contribution moves us closer to a judiciary that reflects the diversity and promise of our nation.

When the next generation of appellate leaders truly represents all of us, our justice system will be that much stronger. Thank you for investing in this work and for helping build a more just and equitable future.

With appreciation,
Paul J. Watford
Partner, King & Spalding
Incoming Board Chair, The Appellate Project

















ALSO: A group of TAP supporters has come together to match all gifts made between now and December 31st, up to $25,000. They stepped forward because they believe deeply in ensuring that talented students and early-career professionals have a pathway into appellate work. Your gift right now will have twice the impact.