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In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the South Dakota appellate practice has seen a significant increase in the use of virtual hearings. On November 16, 2025, the South Dakota Supreme Court announced that it would be conducting all appellate hearings remotely until further notice, in order to ensure the safety of all parties involved.The decision to transition to virtual hearings comes as COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the state, prompting concerns about the health and safety of judges, attorneys, and other court personnel. By conducting hearings remotely, the court aims to minimize the risk of exposure to the virus while still allowing cases to proceed in a timely manner.Attorneys practicing appellate law in South Dakota have expressed mixed feelings about the shift to virtual hearings. Some have praised the court for taking proactive measures to protect everyone involved in the legal process, while others have raised concerns about the potential impact on the quality of representation and the ability to effectively argue their cases.Despite these challenges, the South Dakota Supreme Court has worked to ensure that virtual hearings run smoothly and efficiently. Judges have been provided with training on how to conduct hearings remotely, and attorneys have access to the necessary technology to participate in the proceedings.While there is no definitive timeline for when in-person hearings will resume, the court has stated that it will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and make decisions based on the latest public health guidance. In the meantime, appellate practice in South Dakota will continue to adapt to the new normal of virtual hearings in order to provide a safe and effective means of resolving legal disputes.