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In a move that has been years in the making, the Florida Supreme Court announced major changes to appellate practice procedures that will go into effect on July 3, 2025. The changes, aimed at streamlining the appellate process and incorporating new technology, mark a significant shift in how cases will be handled at the appellate level in the state.One of the key changes is the implementation of electronic filing for all appellate cases. This move is designed to reduce the use of paper and streamline the filing process, making it easier for attorneys to submit documents and for the court to process them. The court has also created a new online portal where parties can access case information, file documents, and track the status of their cases.Another major change is the introduction of virtual oral arguments. In an effort to make the appellate process more efficient and accessible, the court will now allow attorneys to argue their cases remotely via video conferencing technology. This will not only save time and money for attorneys who no longer have to travel to Tallahassee for oral arguments, but it will also make the appellate process more flexible and convenient for all parties involved.The court has also revised its rules on brief formatting and citation, aligning them more closely with national standards. This is intended to make briefs more concise, clear, and easy to read, improving the overall quality of the appellate arguments presented to the court.In addition to these procedural changes, the court has also introduced new technology tools to assist attorneys and the court in the appellate process. These tools include a digital library of appellate decisions, a case management system, and a virtual moot court program where attorneys can practice their oral arguments before their actual court date.Overall, these changes mark a significant step forward in modernizing the appellate practice in Florida and bringing it in line with current technology and best practices. The court hopes that these changes will not only improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the appellate process, but also increase access to justice for all parties involved in appellate cases.