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Raleigh, North Carolina - May 22, 2026In a move to improve efficiency and streamline court procedures, the North Carolina Judicial Branch announced new rules that will affect civil practice in the state. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and will impact how cases are handled in both district and superior courts.One of the key changes in the new rules is the implementation of mandatory e-filing for all civil cases. This means that attorneys will be required to submit all court documents electronically, eliminating the need for paper filings. The move to e-filing is expected to save time and resources for both the courts and legal professionals, as well as improve accessibility to court documents for all parties involved in a case.Additionally, the new rules include provisions for remote hearings and virtual court proceedings. This means that parties to a civil case may be able to participate in hearings and other court proceedings without having to physically appear in court. This is seen as a major step towards modernizing the court system and making it more accessible and convenient for all involved.Another significant change in the new rules is the implementation of a standardized discovery process for civil cases. This will help to ensure that all parties have access to relevant information in a timely manner, thus promoting a fair and efficient resolution of disputes.In announcing the new rules, Chief Justice Samuel A. Hardison stated, "These changes are designed to improve the efficiency of our court system and make civil practice more accessible and convenient for all parties involved. We believe that these reforms will help to ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly in North Carolina."Legal professionals and court officials are already preparing for the upcoming changes, which are expected to have a significant impact on how civil cases are handled in the state. Overall, the new rules are expected to benefit both the courts and the public by streamlining procedures, improving access to justice, and promoting a fair resolution of disputes.