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In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social distancing measures, civil practice courts in North Dakota have seen a significant increase in the use of online proceedings. As of October 16, 2025, virtual court hearings have become the norm for many cases, leading to a more efficient and accessible system for both attorneys and clients.According to Judge Sarah Anderson, who presides over the civil practice division in Fargo, the transition to online proceedings has been mostly smooth. "We've been able to adapt quickly to the virtual format, and it has allowed us to continue conducting hearings and trials without major disruptions," she said.One of the main benefits of online proceedings is the convenience it offers to all parties involved. Attorneys no longer have to travel to the courthouse for hearings, saving both time and money. Clients can also participate in hearings from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the stress and inconvenience of appearing in person.Furthermore, the use of online proceedings has enabled the courts to clear backlogs of cases that accumulated during the pandemic. By conducting hearings virtually, judges have been able to hear more cases in a day than they would have been able to in person.Despite the success of virtual court hearings, some challenges remain. Technical issues, such as poor internet connections and audio problems, have occasionally disrupted proceedings. In addition, some attorneys and clients have expressed concerns about the ability to effectively communicate and present evidence in a virtual setting.However, Judge Anderson remains optimistic about the future of online proceedings in civil practice courts. "While there have been some challenges, the overall benefits of virtual hearings outweigh the drawbacks. I believe that online proceedings will continue to be a valuable tool for the legal system in North Dakota," she added.As the state continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, it is likely that online proceedings will play an increasingly important role in the civil practice courts of North Dakota. With continued improvements in technology and processes, the legal system is poised to adapt and thrive in the years to come.