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On August 3, 2025, California's appellate practice saw significant developments following a series of new court rulings that could potentially impact how cases are handled in the state's higher courts. One of the key rulings came from the California Supreme Court, which issued a decision clarifying the standards for granting discretionary review in civil cases. The court held that in order for a petition for discretionary review to be granted, parties must show that the case presents "significant legal issues or extraordinary circumstances" that warrant the court's attention. This ruling aims to streamline the review process and ensure that the court's limited resources are allocated to cases of utmost importance.In another important decision, the Court of Appeal announced new guidelines for parties seeking to file amicus curiae briefs in appellate cases. The court emphasized that such briefs should only be filed when they provide additional, valuable insight that is not already covered by the parties involved in the case. This ruling is intended to prevent the proliferation of unnecessary amicus briefs and ensure that the court's focus remains on the arguments presented by the actual parties to the case.Additionally, the Court of Appeal issued a ruling addressing the use of technology in appellate practice. The court emphasized the importance of utilizing electronic filing systems and online platforms for submitting briefs and other court documents. The ruling also encouraged attorneys to embrace virtual oral arguments and other remote proceedings, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.These rulings mark a significant shift in how appellate practice is conducted in California, with an emphasis on efficiency, transparency, and the use of technology to streamline the legal process. Attorneys and litigants alike will need to stay abreast of these developments to ensure that they are in compliance with the latest rules and regulations governing appellate practice in the state.