Title
Rules and Forms | Appellate Procedure: Remote Appearances at Oral Argument in the Appellate Division (Action Required)
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Summary
The Appellate Advisory Committee recommends updating the California Rules of Court regarding oral argument in superior court appellate divisions to reflect modern videoconferencing technology and allow broader authorization for remote participation by both parties and appellate division judges. The recommended amendments will enhance access to the courts for self-represented litigants who lack resources or the ability to travel to court in person, along with saving travel costs for courts and simplifying scheduling, ultimately reducing delays for parties.
Recommendation
The Appellate Advisory Committee recommends that the Judicial Council, effective January 1, 2026, amend rules 8.885 and 8.929 of the California Rules of Court regarding oral argument in the appellate division to authorize remote appearances by parties and more broadly authorize remote participation by appellate division judges.