More Appellate Practice news More news in Arizona Find Appellate Practice lawyers in Arizona
In a move to increase accessibility and efficiency in the judicial system, the Arizona appellate courts announced the introduction of virtual oral arguments starting from March 1, 2026. This new development will allow attorneys and judges to participate in hearings remotely, saving time and resources for all parties involved.The shift to virtual oral arguments comes as a response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many court proceedings to be conducted online. However, the benefits of virtual hearings have become apparent, prompting the Arizona appellate courts to implement this practice permanently.Judge Rebecca Thompson, Chief Judge of the Arizona Court of Appeals, stated, "Virtual oral arguments have proven to be a valuable tool in our efforts to make the appellate process more accessible and efficient. By utilizing technology, we can streamline proceedings and facilitate greater participation from attorneys and judges, regardless of their location."Attorneys and litigants will now have the option to request virtual oral arguments in their cases, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming in-person appearances. Additionally, this new practice will also provide a solution for attorneys who may be unable to travel to the courthouse due to scheduling conflicts or other obligations.The Arizona appellate courts have invested in state-of-the-art technology to ensure the smooth facilitation of virtual oral arguments. Secure video conferencing platforms will be used to conduct the hearings, with stringent protocols in place to maintain confidentiality and security.The introduction of virtual oral arguments is a significant step forward in modernizing the Arizona appellate practice and promoting accessibility in the judicial system. By embracing technology, the courts are able to adapt to the changing needs of attorneys and litigants, while maintaining the integrity and fairness of the appellate process.Overall, this new development is expected to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance accessibility for all parties involved in the Arizona appellate courts. As virtual oral arguments become the norm, Arizona sets a precedent for other states to follow suit in embracing technology for a more effective and inclusive judicial system.