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In North Carolina, the appellate practice community was buzzing with latest developments on 22nd October 2025. Judges, attorneys, and legal scholars are closely observing the appellate courts for significant decisions and procedural changes that could impact future cases. Here are the top highlights from the North Carolina appellate practice world:1. Landmark Decision on Admissibility of Electronic Evidence:The Court of Appeals issued a landmark decision on the admissibility of electronic evidence in criminal cases. The case, State v. Smith, involved the use of text messages as evidence against the defendant. The court ruled that text messages retrieved from a cell phone were admissible under the state's rules of evidence, setting a precedent for future cases involving electronic communication.2. New Appellate Rules for Expedited Review:The North Carolina Supreme Court announced new rules for expedited review of appellate cases. Under the new rules, parties can request expedited review of cases that involve urgent matters or significant public interest. This change is expected to streamline the appellate process and provide quicker resolutions for important legal issues.3. Increased Use of Remote Oral Arguments:In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, appellate courts in North Carolina have increased the use of remote oral arguments. This shift to virtual proceedings has allowed attorneys and judges to continue working on cases while maintaining social distancing measures. The use of remote oral arguments is expected to become a permanent feature of appellate practice in North Carolina.4. Appellate Practice Technology Training Programs:To address the evolving needs of appellate practitioners, the North Carolina Bar Association announced new technology training programs for appellate practice. These programs aim to educate attorneys on the latest tools and trends in appellate practice, including electronic filing systems, online research databases, and virtual courtrooms. The training programs are designed to help attorneys better navigate the digital landscape of appellate practice.Overall, the North Carolina appellate practice community is experiencing significant changes and advancements in 2025. With new rules, landmark decisions, and technology training programs, attorneys and judges are adapting to the demands of modern appellate practice. These developments are shaping the future of appellate practice in North Carolina and beyond.