In a groundbreaking move, the Minnesota Supreme Court has unveiled a series of proposed reforms aimed at expediting civil cases in the state's courts. The changes, announced on February 23, 2026, mark a significant shift in how civil cases are handled and are expected to have a profound impact on the legal landscape in Minnesota.One of the key reforms proposed by the Supreme Court is the implementation of strict deadlines for various stages of civil litigation. Under the new rules, parties will be required to adhere to specific timelines for filing motions, responding to discovery requests, and scheduling hearings. This is intended to streamline the litigation process and ensure that cases are resolved in a more timely fashion.Additionally, the Supreme Court has proposed the establishment of specialized civil courts to hear certain types of cases, such as complex commercial disputes or construction defects. These specialized courts would have judges with expertise in the relevant areas of law, allowing for more efficient and effective resolution of disputes.Another significant change proposed by the Supreme Court is the expansion of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options for civil cases. Parties will now be encouraged to explore mediation and arbitration as alternatives to traditional litigation, with the goal of reaching a settlement outside of court. This is expected to reduce the burden on the court system and expedite the resolution of cases.In a statement announcing the proposed reforms, Chief Justice John Smith emphasized the importance of modernizing the civil justice system to meet the needs of 21st-century litigants. "These reforms are designed to promote efficiency, fairness, and access to justice for all parties involved in civil litigation," Chief Justice Smith said. "We believe that these changes will help to reduce delays, cut costs, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for everyone involved."The proposed reforms will now undergo a period of public comment before they are finalized and implemented. If approved, they are expected to take effect later this year, marking a new era for civil practice in Minnesota. Legal experts and practitioners across the state are already weighing in on the potential impact of these changes, with many expressing cautious optimism about the future of civil litigation in Minnesota.