North Dakota has recently made significant changes to its civil practice procedures in an effort to streamline the court system and improve access to justice for all residents. As of February 21, 2026, several new rules and regulations have been implemented to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of civil litigation in the state.One of the most notable changes is the introduction of mandatory mediation for all civil cases filed in North Dakota courts. This new requirement aims to encourage parties to come to a resolution outside of the courtroom, reducing the burden on the overcrowded court dockets and allowing for quicker resolutions to disputes. Mediation sessions will be overseen by trained mediators who will help facilitate communication between the parties and work towards finding a mutually agreeable solution.In addition to mandatory mediation, North Dakota has also implemented new rules regarding electronic filing and service of documents in civil cases. The goal is to modernize the court system and reduce reliance on paper filings, ultimately saving time and resources for both litigants and the court. Electronic filing will now be the primary method for submitting documents, and parties will be required to serve each other electronically as well.Furthermore, North Dakota has established a new committee tasked with reviewing the state's civil practice rules on a regular basis to identify areas in need of improvement or updates. This ongoing review process will ensure that the state's civil practice procedures remain current and responsive to the needs of litigants and the court system.Overall, these new civil practice reform measures mark a significant step forward for North Dakota in its efforts to modernize and improve its legal system. By prioritizing efficiency, access to justice, and responsiveness to the needs of litigants, the state is well-positioned to better serve its residents and uphold the principles of fairness and equity in civil litigation.