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In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social distancing measures, the West Virginia appellate practice has seen a significant increase in the utilization of virtual hearings and expedited appeals. On November 9, 2025, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals announced a series of changes to its procedures, aimed at improving access to justice and expediting the resolution of cases.One of the most notable changes is the increased use of virtual hearings, which allow parties to present their arguments to the court without the need to be physically present in the courtroom. This has proven to be a valuable tool for ensuring that cases can continue to move forward, even in the midst of a global health crisis. Virtual hearings have also helped to reduce costs and increase efficiency in the appellate process.Additionally, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals announced that it will be implementing expedited appeal procedures for certain types of cases. This will allow parties to have their appeals heard more quickly, without sacrificing the quality of the review process. The goal is to ensure that justice is served in a timely manner, especially in cases where a speedy resolution is crucial.In a statement, Chief Justice of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, John Doe, emphasized the importance of adapting to the changing circumstances brought about by the pandemic. He stated, "The judiciary must be flexible and innovative in order to continue to serve the people of West Virginia. These changes to our appellate practice are designed to ensure that justice is not delayed or denied, even during these challenging times."The announcement of these changes has been met with support from both legal professionals and the public. Many see the increased use of virtual hearings and expedited appeals as a positive step towards improving access to justice and ensuring that cases are resolved in a timely manner.Overall, the West Virginia appellate practice is evolving in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By embracing new technologies and streamlining procedures, the judiciary is working to ensure that the wheels of justice continue to turn, even in the face of unprecedented obstacles.