On February 23, 2026, Pennsylvania civil practice saw significant updates that will impact legal procedures across the state. These changes, announced by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, aim to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and ensure fair and timely resolution of civil cases.One of the key updates is the introduction of mandatory mediation for certain types of civil cases. Under the new rule, parties involved in personal injury, medical malpractice, and other select cases will be required to participate in mediation before proceeding to trial. This initiative is expected to reduce backlog in the court system, promote settlement agreements, and lower litigation costs for both plaintiffs and defendants.In addition to mandatory mediation, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court also implemented new guidelines for electronic filing and service of court documents. Beginning on March 1, 2026, all civil cases must be filed electronically, and parties are required to serve legal documents electronically as well. This shift towards e-filing is aimed at modernizing the court system, promoting environmental sustainability, and increasing accessibility to legal services for all Pennsylvanians.Furthermore, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court announced changes to the Rules of Civil Procedure regarding expert witness testimony. The new rule requires expert witnesses to disclose additional information about their qualifications, opinions, and methodology in written reports submitted to the court. This transparency measure aims to ensure the credibility and reliability of expert testimony in civil cases.Legal professionals statewide have expressed mixed reactions to these updates. While some applaud the efforts to improve efficiency and access to justice, others have raised concerns about potential challenges in adjusting to the new requirements. Nonetheless, the overall consensus is that these changes will ultimately benefit the legal community and the public by promoting fairness, expediency, and accountability in civil litigation.As Pennsylvania civil practice continues to evolve, it is crucial for lawyers, judges, and litigants to stay informed of these updates and adapt their practices accordingly. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court looks forward to monitoring the impact of these changes and making further adjustments as needed to enhance the administration of justice in the state.