Kansas Supreme Court adopts new rule for remote hearings and appearances

KANSAS (KSNT) — The Kansas Supreme Court reports that it has adopted a new rule that describes a district court’s discretion to hold remote proceedings or allow a remote appearance.

The court announced it has adopted Supreme Court Rule 103: Remote Proceedings and Appearances through Administrative Order 2025-RL-131 on Oct. 14. The new rule takes effect immediately.

Acting Chief Justice Eric Rosen said the court considered a range of scenarios that could benefit from remote proceedings or appearances.

“There are times when a remote hearing or a remote appearance will contribute to efficient case processing, just as there will be times when an in-person proceeding is absolutely essential to be fair and effective,” Rosen said. “Every case has its own set of facts and circumstances, so it was paramount the rule created a clear framework for someone to make a request while retaining a judge’s discretion whether to grant or deny the request.”

Rule 13 outlines the requirements for a party to request a remote proceeding or appearance, and what exactly the district court could consider when determining that would be appropriate.

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