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In an effort to address the backlog of civil cases in Montana courts, new rules have been implemented to expedite the handling of such matters. The changes, which went into effect on February 2, 2026, aim to streamline the civil practice process and ensure that cases are resolved in a timely manner.One of the key changes introduced is a requirement for parties to participate in early settlement conferences. These conferences will be scheduled shortly after a case is filed, with the goal of encouraging parties to reach a resolution through mediation or negotiation. If a settlement is not reached, the case will proceed to trial without unnecessary delays.Additionally, the new rules impose stricter deadlines for the filing of motions and other pleadings in civil cases. This is intended to prevent unnecessary delays and keep the litigation process moving forward. Parties will be required to adhere to these deadlines or face potential sanctions from the court.Another significant change is the implementation of electronic filing for all civil cases. This will allow for faster and more efficient processing of documents, reducing the time and resources needed to manage paper filings. The move to electronic filing is expected to streamline the entire civil practice process and improve access to court records for all parties involved.The Montana courts have also increased the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration and summary jury trials, to help expedite the resolution of civil cases. By offering parties more options for resolving their disputes outside of traditional litigation, these methods can help reduce the burden on the court system and help parties reach a resolution more quickly.Overall, these new rules represent a significant step forward in improving the efficiency of the civil practice process in Montana courts. By implementing early settlement conferences, stricter deadlines, electronic filing, and alternative dispute resolution methods, the courts are taking proactive steps to address the backlog of civil cases and ensure that justice is served in a timely manner.