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On July 3, 2025, the West Virginia Appellate Court announced significant changes to the rules and procedures governing appellate practice in the state. The new rules aim to streamline the appellate process, increase efficiency, and ensure fair and timely resolution of appeals.One notable change is the implementation of electronic filing for all appellate documents. Attorneys will now be required to file all pleadings, briefs, and other documents electronically through a designated system. This move is expected to reduce paper waste, expedite the filing process, and improve access to court documents for both attorneys and the public.Additionally, the court has established new deadlines for the submission of briefs and other filings. Appellants and appellees will now have strict timelines to adhere to when submitting their arguments and evidence to the court. These deadlines are intended to prevent delays in the appellate process and ensure that cases can be resolved in a timely manner.Another key change is the introduction of mandatory mediation for certain types of cases before they can proceed to the appellate court. Parties will be required to participate in mediation sessions in an effort to resolve their disputes outside of the court system. This initiative is designed to reduce the caseload of the appellate court and promote alternative dispute resolution methods.The new rules also include provisions for expedited review of certain types of cases, such as those involving emergency injunctions or other time-sensitive matters. This will allow the court to prioritize and resolve these cases quickly, ensuring that parties receive timely relief when necessary.Overall, the West Virginia Appellate Court's changes to appellate practice are aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the appellate process. By implementing electronic filing, setting deadlines for submissions, introducing mandatory mediation, and providing for expedited review of certain cases, the court hopes to streamline the appellate process and deliver justice in a more timely fashion. These changes are expected to have a positive impact on the state's judicial system and improve access to justice for all residents of West Virginia.