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On December 9, 2025, Rhode Island lawmakers made history by passing a groundbreaking civil practice reform bill that will have far-reaching implications for the state's legal system. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor Catherine Jenkins, aims to streamline court procedures, improve access to justice, and reduce case backlogs.One of the key provisions of the bill is the implementation of mandatory pre-trial mediation for civil cases. Under this new system, parties involved in civil disputes will be required to attend mediation sessions before their case can proceed to trial. This is expected to help reduce the burden on the state's courts and expedite the resolution of civil cases.In addition to mandatory mediation, the bill also includes measures to modernize court procedures and increase efficiency. This includes the expansion of electronic filing and virtual court hearings, which will make it easier for litigants to access the legal system and reduce the need for in-person court appearances.Governor Jenkins praised the passage of the bill, stating that it represents a significant step forward for the state's legal system. "This reform bill will help ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to a fair and efficient justice system," she said. "By streamlining court procedures and increasing access to justice, we are making Rhode Island a better place to live and work for all of our residents."The passage of the civil practice reform bill was met with widespread support from legal professionals, lawmakers, and advocacy groups. Many praised the bill for its focus on improving access to justice and reducing case backlogs in the state's courts.Overall, the passage of this landmark civil practice reform bill represents a significant milestone for Rhode Island's legal system. By implementing these reforms, the state is poised to become a leader in efficient and accessible civil litigation procedures.