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On May 14, 2026, the Oregon Judicial Department announced a series of new rules aimed at streamlining the civil litigation process in the state. These rules, which went into effect immediately, are designed to make it easier and more efficient for parties involved in civil cases to navigate the court system and resolve their disputes.One of the key changes introduced by the new rules is the implementation of mandatory alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for all civil cases filed in Oregon courts. Under this new rule, parties will be required to participate in mediation or arbitration before their case can proceed to trial. This is intended to encourage parties to resolve their disputes outside of court, saving time and resources for both the parties and the court system.In addition to the mandatory ADR provision, the new rules also include measures to expedite the discovery process in civil cases. For example, parties will now be required to submit their initial disclosures within 30 days of filing their initial pleading, and discovery requests must be responded to within 30 days. These changes are expected to reduce delays in the litigation process and help parties reach resolution more quickly.Furthermore, the Oregon Judicial Department has introduced new electronic filing requirements for civil cases, which will make it easier for parties to file and track court documents online. This move is part of the department's ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline court processes, making it more convenient for litigants to access the justice system.Overall, the new rules are aimed at improving efficiency and access to justice in Oregon's civil courts. By mandating alternative dispute resolution, expediting the discovery process, and implementing electronic filing requirements, the Oregon Judicial Department hopes to make the civil litigation process more efficient and user-friendly for all parties involved.