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On January 20, 2026, the Arizona appellate practice community faced a significant shake-up as new regulations and procedures came into effect, causing both excitement and concern amongst lawyers and judges alike.One of the most notable changes was the implementation of a new electronic filing system for all appellate briefs and documents. This move aimed to streamline the filing process and make it more efficient for both legal professionals and court staff. However, some lawyers expressed concern about potential technical glitches and the learning curve associated with the new system.In addition to the electronic filing system, the Arizona Supreme Court also introduced new rules regarding the submission of amicus curiae briefs. The court now requires parties seeking to submit an amicus brief to obtain permission from all parties involved in the case, a change that some viewed as a hindrance to the advocacy of important issues by third-party groups.Another significant development in Arizona appellate practice was the expansion of oral argument opportunities for certain cases. The Court of Appeals announced that it would now schedule oral arguments for a wider range of cases, providing litigants with more opportunities to present their arguments in person. This move was welcomed by many attorneys who believed that oral arguments were crucial in ensuring a fair and thorough review of their cases.Despite these changes, some members of the appellate practice community expressed concerns about the increasing workload on judges and court staff. The influx of new cases and the expanded oral argument schedule put pressure on the already busy appellate courts, leading to worries about delays in the adjudication of cases.Overall, the new developments in Arizona appellate practice in 2026 reflected a continued effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the appellate process. While some challenges and concerns arose, many legal professionals remained optimistic about the opportunities for growth and advancement in the field. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these changes shape the landscape of appellate practice in Arizona.