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South Carolina civil practice saw major changes on September 4, 2025, with several new laws and regulations coming into effect. These changes have been introduced to streamline the legal process, improve access to justice, and enhance efficiency in the state's court system.One of the key changes is the implementation of mandatory mediation in civil cases. Under the new law, parties involved in civil disputes will be required to attempt mediation before proceeding to court. This is aimed at reducing court congestion and delays, as well as promoting alternative dispute resolution methods.Another significant change is the introduction of electronic filing for all civil cases. Attorneys and parties will now be required to file documents electronically through the state's online portal. This move is expected to reduce paper use, improve document organization, and speed up the processing of legal paperwork.Additionally, the state has revamped its rules on civil procedure to align with best practices and ensure consistency in court proceedings. These changes include updated guidelines for the handling of evidence, the timeline for filing motions, and the procedure for requesting extensions.Furthermore, the state has increased the amount of compensation available to jurors in civil cases. Jurors will now be reimbursed for their time at a higher rate, in an effort to encourage greater participation in the legal process and ensure fair compensation for those serving on juries.Overall, these changes mark a significant step forward for South Carolina civil practice, signaling a commitment to modernizing the legal system and improving access to justice for all residents. As these new laws and regulations take effect, they are expected to have a positive impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the state's court system.