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In a move to expedite the handling of cases and reduce the backlog in the Vermont appellate court system, the Vermont Supreme Court announced today that they will be implementing virtual hearings for all appellate cases starting January 1, 2026. This decision comes as a response to the ever-growing caseload and the delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.The Chief Justice of the Vermont Supreme Court, Sarah Robinson, stated that the transition to virtual hearings will not only help expedite the handling of cases but also make the appellate process more accessible and efficient for all parties involved. The move to virtual hearings is part of the court's ongoing efforts to modernize their operations and adapt to the changing technological landscape.Under the new system, attorneys and litigants will be able to participate in appellate hearings remotely using videoconferencing technology. This means that parties will no longer have to travel to court for oral arguments, saving time and resources for everyone involved. The virtual hearings will be conducted in real-time, allowing for a seamless and efficient exchange of information and arguments between the parties and the justices.The Vermont Supreme Court has been testing virtual hearings for the past few months, and the feedback from attorneys and litigants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the convenience and accessibility of the new system, noting that it has helped streamline the appellate process and reduce the time it takes to resolve cases.In addition to implementing virtual hearings, the Vermont Supreme Court has also made other changes to their appellate practice in order to improve efficiency. These include setting stricter deadlines for briefs and motions, as well as implementing a faster scheduling process for oral arguments.Overall, the move to virtual hearings is seen as a positive step forward for the Vermont appellate court system. By embracing technology and modernizing their operations, the court hopes to reduce delays, improve access to justice, and provide a more efficient and effective appellate process for all parties involved.