On February 18, 2026, Colorado civil practice underwent significant changes as several new laws and reforms came into force, impacting the legal landscape in the state. These changes aim to improve access to justice, streamline court procedures, and enhance efficiency in civil litigation.One of the key changes introduced is the implementation of electronic filing and service of court documents statewide. This transition to digital platforms is expected to expedite the handling of case filings, reduce paperwork and administrative costs, and promote environmental sustainability. Additionally, the new system is intended to make the legal process more accessible for litigants, attorneys, and court personnel.Another notable reform that took effect is the revised rules governing pre-trial discovery procedures. The updates aim to promote transparency, fairness, and proportionality in the exchange of information between parties before trial. The changes include stricter timelines for completing discovery, limitations on the scope of requests, and measures to prevent abuse of the discovery process.Furthermore, the implementation of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms has been expanded to encourage parties to resolve their disputes outside of the courtroom. Mediation and arbitration have been increasingly utilized as efficient and cost-effective ways to reach settlements and avoid lengthy court proceedings. The new laws aim to promote the use of ADR and provide more support for parties engaging in these processes.In addition to these reforms, changes to the rules governing court procedures, case management, and judicial oversight have also been introduced to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the civil justice system in Colorado. The goal is to ensure timely resolution of cases, reduce backlog, and enhance access to justice for all individuals.Overall, the new laws and reforms that have been implemented in Colorado civil practice represent a significant step towards modernizing and improving the legal system in the state. These changes seek to address current challenges, promote fairness and efficiency, and ultimately enhance the delivery of justice for all Coloradans.