On July 8, 2025, the Minnesota appellate practice landscape saw several significant developments that are poised to impact the way cases are handled in the state.One of the most noteworthy updates came in the form of a ruling by the Minnesota Court of Appeals, which clarified the standards for granting a new trial in criminal cases. The court held that a new trial should only be granted if the defendant can establish that the error at trial was not harmless beyond a reasonable doubt. This ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for how appellate attorneys argue for new trials on behalf of their clients.In another major development, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued a decision that will streamline the process for appealing decisions made by administrative agencies. The court ruled that parties seeking to appeal administrative decisions must first exhaust all administrative remedies before bringing their case to the courts. This decision is expected to reduce the number of frivolous appeals and ensure that only meritorious cases make their way through the appellate process.The Minnesota appellate practice community also saw a shift in how cases are being handled in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With more courts adopting virtual hearings and remote oral arguments, appellate attorneys have had to adjust their strategies to effectively represent their clients in this new environment. Many firms have invested in technology and training to ensure that they can deliver the same level of advocacy in a virtual setting as they would in person.Overall, the recent developments in Minnesota appellate practice underscore the importance of staying up-to-date on changes in the legal landscape and adapting to new challenges. As the appellate process continues to evolve, attorneys must be prepared to navigate these changes in order to effectively advocate for their clients and uphold the principles of justice.