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On September 15, 2025, the South Carolina Supreme Court enacted several key changes to the state's appellate practice rules, marking a significant shift in the way appeals are handled in the state.One of the most notable changes is the adoption of electronic filing for all appellate documents. This move is aimed at streamlining the appeals process and increasing efficiency by reducing the reliance on paper filings. Attorneys and parties will now be required to submit all briefs, motions, and other documents electronically through a designated online portal.In addition to the shift towards electronic filing, the Supreme Court also implemented new requirements for appellate briefs. Attorneys will now be limited to a maximum of 10,000 words for their initial briefs, with a 6,000-word limit for reply briefs. This change is expected to promote clarity and conciseness in written arguments and help improve the readability of appellate briefs for judges.Furthermore, the court has established a new mediation program for appellate cases. Parties will now have the option to participate in mediation before their cases are heard by the appellate court, with the goal of reaching a settlement or narrowing the issues in dispute. The mediation program is intended to reduce the backlog of cases in the appellate courts and provide parties with a cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation.These changes to the appellate practice rules in South Carolina reflect a broader trend towards modernizing and improving the state's legal system. By embracing technology, promoting efficiency, and offering alternative dispute resolution options, the South Carolina Supreme Court is working to ensure that the appellate process is accessible, fair, and effective for all parties involved.