GENERAL RULE 9

RULE AMENDMENT COVER SHEET SUGGESTED AMENDMENT TO CR 30

1.       Proponent Organization: BJA Remote Proceedings Work Group

2.       Spokesperson & Contact Info:

Judge Jim Rogers, Co-Chair BJA Remote Proceedings Work Group – Superior Court Level Email: Jim.Rogers@kingcounty.gov

Phone: 206-477-1597

3.       Purpose of Suggested Rule Amendment

This proposed amendment allows remote depositions of witnesses. The Civil Group was unanimous as to most amendments to the rule except 30(b)(7). After meeting with the Supreme Court Rules Committee, the Civil Group redrafted this section and it passed by majority vote. This included the Superior Court Judges Association Rules Committee.

This proposed amended rule’s section 30(b)(7) follows closely the proposed amended CR 43 section on the same topic. Proposed amended CR 43 was passed by this group unanimously.

4.       Is Expedited Consideration Requested?

Expedited consideration is essential. The Court should seriously consider passing amended rules permitting remote proceedings before the Supreme Court’s Emergency Order is lifted. Use of remote technology in superior courts is now widespread. For some jurisdictions, it has become essential to maintain access to justice. President's Corner > The Rural Attorney Shortage is Turning Into a Crisis in Washington State - Washington State Bar News (wabarnews.org) Members of our Group in rural areas noted that remote technology assists them by allowing out of town counsel to appear.

5.       Is a Public Hearing Recommended? No