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West Virginia's court system has announced a series of new rules for appellate practice, aimed at streamlining the process and improving efficiency in handling appeals. The changes, which officially went into effect on May 31, 2026, come after months of planning and collaboration between judges, lawyers, and other stakeholders.One of the key changes introduced is the establishment of a standardized timeline for filing appeals and submitting briefs. Under the new rules, appellants will have 30 days to file their notice of appeal after a judgment or order is entered, while appellees will have 30 days to respond. Additionally, all briefs must be filed within 60 days of the notice of appeal being filed, with extensions granted only under exceptional circumstances.Another significant change is the requirement for all parties to participate in a mandatory settlement conference before the appeal is heard. This rule is intended to promote alternative dispute resolution and potentially resolve cases without the need for a lengthy appellate process.In an effort to improve transparency and access to justice, the court will also begin live-streaming oral arguments in appellate cases, allowing the public to observe proceedings remotely. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize the court system and increase public understanding of the appellate process.Chief Justice John Doe praised the new rules, stating, "These changes are designed to modernize our appellate practice and ensure that cases are handled in a timely and efficient manner. By establishing clear guidelines and promoting alternative dispute resolution, we believe that we can better serve the people of West Virginia and deliver justice effectively."Overall, the implementation of these new rules is expected to have a positive impact on the West Virginia appellate practice system, making it more streamlined, efficient, and accessible to all parties involved. The court will continue to monitor the effects of these changes and make adjustments as needed to ensure the continued improvement of the appellate process.