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On September 16, 2025, the Oregon Supreme Court announced significant changes to the state's civil practice procedures aimed at improving efficiency and streamlining the legal process. The new rules, set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, are expected to have a major impact on how civil cases are handled in Oregon courts.One of the key changes introduced by the Supreme Court is the implementation of mandatory mediation for all civil cases before they can proceed to trial. Under the new rules, parties involved in a civil dispute will be required to attempt to resolve their differences through mediation before the case can be brought before a judge.In addition to mandatory mediation, the Supreme Court also announced a series of new guidelines designed to speed up the litigation process. These include strict deadlines for filing motions and responding to discovery requests, as well as limits on the length of briefs and other court filings. The court hopes that these changes will help to reduce the backlog of cases and ensure that disputes are resolved in a timely manner.Another important change introduced by the Supreme Court is the establishment of a new electronic filing system for civil cases. This system will allow parties to file court documents online, reducing the need for in-person filings and streamlining the overall process. It is hoped that this new system will make it easier for parties to access court documents and monitor the progress of their case.Overall, the new rules introduced by the Oregon Supreme Court mark a significant shift in the state's civil practice procedures. By emphasizing mediation, setting strict deadlines, and implementing an electronic filing system, the court aims to improve efficiency and ensure that cases are resolved quickly and fairly. These changes are expected to have a positive impact on the state's legal system and help to uphold the principles of justice and due process.