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In a significant development for the North Carolina legal community, appellate practice in the state has experienced a surge in remote proceedings. On August 14, 2025, the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of North Carolina conducted all of their hearings and arguments using virtual platforms, marking a departure from traditional in-person proceedings.The shift to remote proceedings comes as a result of advancements in technology and the ongoing efforts to modernize the state's judicial system. The change has been met with mixed reactions from attorneys, judges, and other legal professionals in North Carolina.Proponents of remote proceedings argue that they offer increased accessibility and convenience for parties involved in appellate cases. Attorneys can now participate in hearings from anywhere, eliminating the need for travel and reducing costs associated with in-person appearances. Additionally, virtual proceedings allow for more flexibility in scheduling and can expedite the resolution of cases.However, some critics have expressed concerns about the potential drawbacks of remote appellate practice. They argue that virtual hearings may lack the personal interaction and dynamics present in traditional courtrooms, which could affect the quality of arguments and decision-making. There are also concerns about cybersecurity and privacy issues, as sensitive legal information is shared over digital platforms.Despite these concerns, the shift to remote proceedings in North Carolina appellate practice is likely to continue, as the benefits of virtual technology become increasingly evident. The state's legal community is adapting to this new normal, exploring ways to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of virtual hearings while ensuring fair and transparent legal proceedings.Moving forward, North Carolina appellate practice is expected to further embrace technological innovations and explore new ways to enhance access to justice for all parties involved in the legal system. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the state's appellate courts are at the forefront of embracing change and adapting to new challenges in the pursuit of justice.