GR 9 COVER SHEET

Suggested Amendment Rules of Appellate Procedure

Rule 17.4 – Filing and Service of Motion – Answer to Motion

A.  Proponent: Washington State Court of Appeals Rules Committee

B.  Spokesperson: Judge Bradley Maxa, Chair

C.  Purpose: RAP 17.4 provides that appellate court commissioner or clerk “will” reproduce additional copies of all papers relating to motions or answers that may be necessary for the appellate court and charge the appropriate party as provided in RAP 10.5(a), which provides for the clerk’s reproduction of briefs and reproduction charges.

In light of the current status of electronic filings, the proposed amendment to the rule will make the commissioner or clerk’s reproduction discretionary by changing the word “will” to “may” and will thus eliminate unnecessary copying of paper documents and reproduction charges. A separate  proposed change to RAP 10.5(a) will make the clerk’s reproduction of briefs discretionary.

D.  Hearing: Not requested.

E.  Expedited Consideration: Not requested.

F.  Supporting Material: Suggested rule amendment.