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In the world of California civil practice, several important updates were announced on January 23, 2026. From new laws to court cases, here is a detailed look at the key developments:1. Supreme Court ruling on arbitration agreements:The California Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling on the enforceability of arbitration agreements in employment contracts. The court held that mandatory arbitration agreements that waive an individual's right to bring a civil action for employment discrimination are unenforceable under California law. This decision is expected to have a significant impact on the legal landscape for California workers and employers.2. New legislation on statute of limitations for civil suits:Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law extending the statute of limitations for certain civil suits in California. Under the new law, individuals will now have up to ten years to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage caused by exposure to toxic substances. This change aims to provide more time for victims to seek justice and compensation for their injuries.3. Court of Appeal decision on class action certification:In a highly anticipated decision, the California Court of Appeal ruled on the certification of a class action lawsuit against a major tech company. The court determined that the plaintiffs had met the requirements for class certification, allowing the case to proceed as a class action. This decision is expected to have broad implications for class action litigation in California.4. Updates on virtual court proceedings:Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many California courts have transitioned to virtual proceedings. On January 23, several courts announced updates to their virtual operations, including expanded access to remote hearings and online filing systems. These changes aim to ensure continued access to justice while prioritizing public health and safety.Overall, January 23, 2026, brought several significant developments in California civil practice. From court rulings to legislative changes, these updates will shape the legal landscape for years to come. Stay tuned for more news and updates on California civil practice.