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On October 12, 2025, the Washington appellate practice landscape saw significant changes as the state court system announced a new rule requiring all appellate briefs and other court filings to be submitted electronically. The rule, which was approved by the state Supreme Court, is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is aimed at streamlining the appellate process and reducing the reliance on paper filings.The move to electronic filing comes as part of a broader effort by the Washington State Courts to modernize and digitize court proceedings. The new rule will require all attorneys and self-represented litigants to file their appellate briefs, motions, and other documents through the court's online portal. The court will no longer accept paper filings, except in cases of technical difficulties with the electronic filing system.In a statement announcing the new rule, Chief Justice Jane Smith emphasized the benefits of electronic filing for both the court and litigants. "Electronic filing will make the appellate process more efficient and cost-effective, allowing attorneys to file documents from anywhere at any time," she said. "This will not only save time and resources for all parties involved but also improve access to justice by making the court system more user-friendly."The new rule has been met with mixed reactions from the legal community. Some attorneys have welcomed the change, citing the convenience and efficiency of electronic filing. Others, however, have expressed concerns about potential technical issues with the online portal and the impact on attorneys who may not have access to reliable internet service.In addition to the new electronic filing rule, the Washington appellate practice community is also anticipating other changes on the horizon. The state Supreme Court is currently reviewing a proposal to revise the rules governing oral arguments in appellate cases, with a focus on promoting more interactive and engaging presentations by attorneys.Overall, the Washington appellate practice landscape is evolving rapidly, with new rules and procedures designed to modernize and improve the appellate process. As attorneys and litigants navigate these changes, the state court system remains committed to ensuring a fair and efficient appellate system for all parties involved.