In a groundbreaking move for the Georgia legal community, the Court of Appeals announced today the implementation of virtual oral arguments for appellate practices. This new initiative, aimed at modernizing the state's appellate process, will allow attorneys to present their arguments to the court remotely, saving time and resources for both the legal professionals and the court.The decision to introduce virtual oral arguments comes in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced courts across the country to adapt to remote proceedings. The Court of Appeals recognized the need to continue providing efficient access to justice while also ensuring the safety of all parties involved in the appellate process.According to Chief Judge Sarah Harris, "The implementation of virtual oral arguments is a positive step towards improving the efficiency and accessibility of the appellate process in Georgia. We understand the challenges that attorneys and clients face in traveling to court for oral arguments, and we believe that this new initiative will help streamline the process and make it more convenient for all parties involved."The virtual oral arguments will be conducted through video conferencing platforms, allowing attorneys to present their arguments to the court from their own offices or homes. This new format will also enable attorneys from different parts of the state to participate in appellate proceedings without the need for extensive travel.In addition to the implementation of virtual oral arguments, the Court of Appeals also announced the launch of a new online portal for electronic filing of appellate briefs and other documents. This digital platform will streamline the filing process and reduce the use of paper, in line with the court's commitment to sustainability and efficiency.Attorneys and legal professionals across Georgia have welcomed the news of the Court of Appeals' adoption of virtual oral arguments and the new online filing portal. Many have expressed their support for the court's efforts to modernize the appellate process and make it more accessible to all parties involved.Overall, the introduction of virtual oral arguments and the online filing portal mark a significant milestone for appellate practice in Georgia. The Court of Appeals' commitment to innovation and efficiency will undoubtedly benefit attorneys, clients, and the legal community as a whole.