This piece is a compelling guest editorial penned by all four partners of Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A.—Edward R. Blumberg, Steven K. Deutsch, Cosme Caballero, and Robert E. (Beau) Blumberg. Published in March 2023, the article issues a strong warning against the increasing virtualization of court proceedings, arguing that it poses a significant threat to the fundamental values and future of our justice system. The authors contend that the widespread elimination of in-person courtroom experiences is severely stunting the professional development of both new lawyers and aspiring judges, depriving them of crucial real-time learning in courtroom decorum, on-the-spot thinking, and vital interactions with court personnel and opposing counsel. They advocate for the establishment of hybrid hearings, where in-person appearances are always an option, while insisting that all jury trials should remain exclusively in-person for lawyers.
The editorial further articulates the dehumanizing aspects observed in purely virtual proceedings, citing issues from inappropriate attire to a general loss of the solemnity intrinsic to legal administration. The authors lament the diminished mentorship opportunities for younger attorneys, who historically benefited from observing and learning from seasoned litigators and judges in the physical courtroom. They passionately argue that convenience and economic efficiency should never supersede the dignity and time-honored traditions of the courthouse, which serves as a vital symbol of justice and the “last line of defense” for democracy. Ultimately, the partners call for a “full restoration of our justice system,” emphasizing that preserving the physical courtroom experience is essential to maintaining public confidence, the integrity of the profession, and the sanctity of a fair and independent judiciary.
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