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In a groundbreaking move aimed at streamlining the appellate process and increasing access to justice, the Rhode Island Appellate Court announced that it will now be conducting virtual hearings for all appellate cases, effective July 15, 2025.This decision comes as a response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced courts across the country to adapt to remote proceedings. The success of virtual hearings during this period has prompted the Rhode Island Appellate Court to make them a permanent feature of their operations moving forward.Chief Justice Maria Rodriguez stated, "We have seen firsthand the benefits of virtual hearings in terms of efficiency, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. By conducting hearings remotely, we are able to ensure that all parties have equal access to the justice system, regardless of their location or circumstances."The move to virtual hearings is expected to have a significant impact on the court's caseload, as well as on the legal profession as a whole. Attorneys will now have the option to participate in hearings from anywhere in the state or even from out of state, making it easier for them to represent clients in appellate proceedings.Additionally, the implementation of virtual hearings will also help to alleviate the backlog of cases that has been a persistent issue in the Rhode Island Appellate Court. With the ability to conduct hearings more efficiently and without the constraints of physical location, the court will be able to process cases more quickly and ensure that justice is served in a timely manner.Overall, the decision to implement virtual hearings in the Rhode Island Appellate Court represents a significant step forward in improving access to justice and modernizing the appellate process. By embracing technology and innovation, the court is paving the way for a more efficient and equitable system of justice for all Rhode Islanders.