Welcome to the First District Appellate American Inn of Court. The American Inns of Court is a national organization consisting of local Inns located in 48 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Tokyo. The mission of the Inn is to inspire the legal community to advance the rule of law by achieving the highest level of professionalism through example, education, and mentoring.
Founded in 2008, the First District Appellate American Inn specifically focuses on appellate practice, which includes civil, criminal, and administrative appeals. Our membership consists of a mixture of around 75 members, including judges, professors, lawyers, and law students from Florida State University and the University of Florida. We usually hold six general membership meetings during the year at the First District Court of Appeal in Tallahassee. Each meeting provides a meaningful opportunity for networking and professional enrichment (as well as an educational program and informal dinner). Pupilage teams, composed of judges, experienced and junior lawyers, and students, are responsible for presenting the monthly educational programs. Teams also meet regularly to discuss their upcoming program and to foster mentor/protégée relationships.
As reflected by the “Platinum Level” logos on this page, our Inn has been recognized by the National American Inns of Court organization for our achievements in implementing and maintaining best practices. This honor results from the dedicated effort of past Inn presidents, including The Honorable James R. Wolf (2008-2009); The Honorable Susan L. Kelsey (2009-10); The Honorable Charles J. Kahn, Jr. (2010-11); Michael G. Tanner (2011-12); former First DCA Judge Peter D. Webster (2012-13); former First DCA Judge William A. Van Nortwick (2013-14); Ben J. Weaver (2014-15); The Honorable Bradford L. Thomas (2015-16); Chrissy Davis (2016-17); The Honorable Stephanie Ray (2017-18); Diana L. Johnson (2018-19); The Honorable Ross L. Bilbrey (2019-20); Diane DeWolf (2020-21); The Honorable M.K. Thomas (2021-22); Courtney Brewer (2022-23); The Honorable Rachel E. Nordby (2023-24); and Michael Korn (2024-2025).
Our Inn takes great pride in its strong tradition of fostering legal education, professional networking, mentoring, and community service. Now in our 17th year of operation, we are incredibly grateful for the enthusiastic and dedicated support of our members. As we continue our efforts to further strengthen both our Inn and the broader legal community, your involvement remains invaluable.
Thank you for your continued interest.
Scott Walker, President, 2025-2026
Gainesville, Florida