This paper is one in a series of six papers in this volume on issues relating to reducing litigation costs. As a result, several methods of streamlining the appeals process have been suggested and studied.
Oral arguments are one target for reform.
Most experts agree that they have little impact on the outcome of appeals, and are often not used effectively. Whether they are eliminated or limited in some fashion, reform of oral arguments will save both court and litigant time and expenses. Another proposed reform is limiting page counts for appellate briefs. Studies in simple cases have found saved time and attorney fees, while preserving the perception by attorneys that they received fair hearings. No results are reported for larger, more complicated cases.