Rule 70-1. Oral Argument; Videoconferencing of Oral Argument in Certain Cases

(a) Oral argument will be allowed as of right in all appeals except as provided in subsection (b) of this rule.

(b) In civil cases where: (1) the dispositive issue or set of issues has been recently authoritatively decided; or (2) the facts and legal arguments are adequately presented in the briefs and the decisional process would not be significantly aided by oral argument, notice will be sent to counsel of record that the case will be decided on the briefs and record only. This notice will be issued after all briefs and appendices, if any, have been filed. Any party may file a request for argument stating briefly the reasons why oral argument is appropriate and shall do so within ten days of the issuance of the court's notice. After receipt and consideration of such a request, the court will either assign the case for oral argument or assign the case for disposition without oral argument, as it deems appropriate.

(c) In matters involving incarcerated self-represented parties, oral argument may be conducted by videoconference upon direction of the court in its discretion.

Committee Notes

(P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 4106.) (Amended May 19, 2011, to take effect Jan. 1, 2012; amended June 5, 2013, to take effect July 1, 2013; amended Sept. 16, 2015, to take effect Jan. 1, 2016; amended June 15, 2016, to take effect Sept. 30, 2016; amended July 19, 2022, to take effect Jan. 1, 2023.)