In an effort to improve efficiency and accessibility in the Oregon civil court system, Governor Kate Brown signed a new law on May 26, 2026, that aims to streamline civil practice procedures. The law, known as the Civil Practice Modernization Act, introduces several key reforms that will impact how civil cases are handled in the state.One of the most significant changes introduced by the Civil Practice Modernization Act is the implementation of mandatory e-filing for all civil cases. Under the new law, parties will be required to submit all court documents electronically, which is expected to reduce paperwork, streamline case management, and improve overall efficiency in the court system.Additionally, the Civil Practice Modernization Act establishes new deadlines and timelines for various stages of civil proceedings, including the filing of pleadings, discovery requests, and motions. The goal of these new timelines is to ensure that cases move through the court system in a timely manner, minimizing delays and expediting the resolution of disputes.The new law also includes provisions to promote alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation and arbitration, as a means of resolving civil cases outside of the traditional courtroom setting. By encouraging parties to explore alternative dispute resolution options, the law aims to reduce the burden on the court system and provide parties with greater flexibility in resolving their disputes.Furthermore, the Civil Practice Modernization Act includes measures to enhance access to justice for underserved communities, such as providing funding for legal aid organizations and expanding online resources for self-represented litigants. These initiatives are intended to ensure that all Oregonians have equal access to the civil justice system and can effectively navigate the legal process.Overall, the Civil Practice Modernization Act represents a significant step towards modernizing and improving the civil court system in Oregon. By implementing new procedures and reforms, the law aims to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and fairness in civil practice, ultimately benefiting all parties involved in civil litigation.