In response to the rapidly increasing COVID-19 infection rate in the New York City area and throughout the state, the presiding justices of the First and Second Departments of the Appellate Division, Rolando Acosta and Hector LaSalle have announced that their courts will return to virtual oral arguments beginning the week of January 3. The proceedings will continue to be livestreamed over the Internet. In a joint statement, Justices Acosta and LaSalle said, "For the safety of all who appear in our courts, we have determined that it is prudent to return to virtual oral arguments until further notice. We are hopeful that we will be able to safely recommence in-person proceedings in February."