On July 5, 2025, the Illinois Supreme Court announced significant changes to civil practice procedures in an effort to streamline court processes, increase efficiency, and improve access to justice for all. The changes, which will go into effect on August 1, 2025, are the result of months of collaboration between the court system, legal professionals, and stakeholders from across the state.One of the most notable changes is the implementation of mandatory alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in civil cases. Under the new rules, parties involved in civil disputes will be required to participate in mediation or arbitration before their case can proceed to trial. This aims to reduce the backlog of cases in Illinois courts and promote quicker, more cost-effective resolutions for litigants.Additionally, the Illinois Supreme Court has introduced new electronic filing requirements for all civil cases. Lawyers and self-represented litigants will now be required to file all documents electronically through the court’s online portal, eliminating the need for paper filings. This move towards e-filing is expected to improve the efficiency of the court system and make it easier for parties to track the progress of their cases.Another key change announced by the Illinois Supreme Court is the expansion of remote court appearances. In an effort to make court proceedings more accessible for all parties, judges will have the discretion to allow litigants, attorneys, and witnesses to appear in court via video conference or telephone. This change is particularly important for individuals who may have difficulty attending court in person due to transportation, health, or other barriers.The Illinois Supreme Court has also implemented new rules regarding service of process in civil cases. Parties will now be required to serve documents electronically whenever possible, including through email or other electronic means. This change is intended to speed up the delivery of important court documents and reduce delays in the legal process.Overall, the changes to civil practice procedures in Illinois are designed to modernize the court system, improve efficiency, and make it easier for litigants to navigate the legal process. By emphasizing alternative dispute resolution, electronic filing, remote court appearances, and electronic service of process, the Illinois Supreme Court is taking a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of the legal community. These changes are expected to have a positive impact on the Illinois civil justice system for years to come.