On December 30, 2025, significant changes to civil practice rules in Florida went into effect, impacting the way cases are litigated in the state. The Florida Supreme Court approved the amendments to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure earlier in the year, and they are now officially in force.One of the most notable changes is the implementation of a mandatory electronic filing system for all civil cases. This means that attorneys and parties involved in civil litigation must now file all documents electronically through the state's designated system. The move towards electronic filing is aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and streamlining the court process.In addition to electronic filing, the amendments also include new procedures for the management of complex litigation. The changes provide guidelines for the handling of multi-party cases, mass torts, and other complex civil matters. This is designed to ensure that these cases are managed more effectively and efficiently, with the goal of expediting resolution and reducing delays.Another key change is the establishment of strict deadlines for the completion of discovery. The amendments now require parties to conduct discovery within a specified timeframe, reducing the potential for endless delays and ensuring that cases move forward in a timely manner. This is intended to promote efficiency and avoid unnecessary prolongation of litigation.Furthermore, the amendments also introduce new provisions for alternative dispute resolution (ADR), encouraging parties to consider mediation or arbitration as a way to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom. ADR is seen as a cost-effective and time-saving option for parties looking to settle their differences amicably and avoid the time and expense of a trial.Overall, the changes to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure mark a significant shift in the way civil cases are handled in the state. By embracing electronic filing, improving case management for complex matters, setting deadlines for discovery, and promoting ADR, the amendments aim to modernize and streamline the civil litigation process in Florida. These changes are expected to have a positive impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the state's civil justice system in the years to come.