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In a recent development in Rhode Island civil practice, new legislation has been introduced that will bring significant changes to court procedures. The Rhode Island General Assembly passed a bill on January 23, 2026, that aims to streamline the civil litigation process and improve access to justice for all parties involved.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the implementation of mandatory mediation before a civil case can proceed to trial. Under the new law, parties will be required to attempt to resolve their disputes through mediation before escalating the matter to the court system. This is intended to reduce the burden on the state's courts and promote early resolution of disputes.Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration and collaborative law, in order to provide more options for parties to resolve their disputes outside of traditional litigation. These alternative methods are seen as more cost-effective and efficient ways to reach a resolution, particularly in cases where the parties are willing to work together to find a solution.The new legislation also includes changes to the rules of evidence and procedure in civil cases. For example, there are now stricter guidelines for the admission of expert testimony and a requirement for parties to disclose potential witnesses and evidence earlier in the litigation process. These changes are intended to streamline the evidence-gathering process and ensure a more efficient and fair resolution of disputes.Overall, the new legislation represents a significant shift in Rhode Island civil practice towards a more efficient and accessible court system. By promoting alternative dispute resolution methods and implementing stricter rules for evidence and procedure, the state aims to provide parties with more options for resolving their disputes and to expedite the litigation process.Legal experts and practitioners have welcomed the changes, noting that they will help to reduce the backlog of cases in the state's courts and improve access to justice for all parties. It is expected that the new legislation will have a positive impact on the civil practice landscape in Rhode Island, making it easier for parties to resolve their disputes and obtain a fair and timely resolution.