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On March 3, 2026, the Maine Judicial Branch announced significant changes to civil practice procedures in an effort to expedite the resolution of cases and improve access to justice for all parties involved. The changes, which will go into effect immediately, are aimed at streamlining the litigation process and reducing delays in the court system.One of the key changes announced by the Maine Judicial Branch is the implementation of mandatory mediation in civil cases before they can proceed to trial. Under the new rules, parties involved in civil disputes will be required to participate in mediation with a trained mediator before their case can be scheduled for trial. This is intended to encourage parties to settle their disputes outside of court, saving time and resources for both the litigants and the court.Additionally, the Maine Judicial Branch has also implemented new rules regarding electronic filing and service of documents in civil cases. Effective immediately, all documents filed with the court must be submitted electronically, and parties are required to serve all documents on opposing parties electronically. This move is expected to streamline the filing process and reduce the amount of paper waste generated by civil litigation.Furthermore, the Maine Judicial Branch has increased the use of technology in court proceedings, allowing for remote appearances by parties, attorneys, and witnesses. This is aimed at reducing the need for in-person court appearances and simplifying the litigation process for all involved.In a statement, Chief Justice of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court praised the changes, stating, "These new procedures are designed to make the civil litigation process more efficient and accessible to all parties involved. By implementing these changes, we hope to improve the overall experience of litigants in our court system and reduce delays in the resolution of civil cases."Overall, the changes to civil practice procedures in Maine are expected to have a significant impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the court system. By encouraging mediation, implementing electronic filing, and increasing the use of technology in court proceedings, the Maine Judicial Branch is taking proactive steps to improve access to justice and expedite the resolution of civil disputes.