GENERAL RULE 9

RULE AMENDMENT COVER SHEET SUGGESTED AMENDMENT TO CR 26

1.       Proponent Organization: BJA Remote Proceedings Work Group Civil

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 is a very simple proposed amendment in section (f) that allows the parties to appear by remote means at a pretrial conference. The Civil Group unanimously supports this change.

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