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In an effort to streamline court procedures and improve access to justice, South Dakota has implemented several changes to its civil practice rules effective March 1, 2026.One of the key changes is the introduction of mandatory mediation for all civil cases filed in the state. Under the new rules, parties will be required to attend a mediation session before their case can proceed to trial. This is aimed at encouraging parties to resolve their disputes amicably and avoid lengthy and costly courtroom battles.Additionally, the state has increased the threshold for cases eligible for expedited civil litigation procedures. Previously, cases with a monetary value of up to $50,000 were eligible for expedited procedures. However, under the new rules, cases with a value of up to $100,000 will qualify for the expedited process. This change is intended to help expedite the resolution of smaller claims and reduce the burden on the court system.Another significant change is the implementation of electronic filing for all civil cases in the state. Attorneys and parties will now be required to file all court documents electronically, reducing the reliance on paper filings and improving efficiency in case processing.Furthermore, South Dakota has updated its rules regarding the scheduling of hearings and trials. The new rules will allow for more flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend hearings, to accommodate the needs of parties and attorneys.These changes represent a significant overhaul of the civil practice rules in South Dakota and are aimed at modernizing the court system, reducing delays, and improving access to justice for all parties involved in civil litigation. The state hopes that these changes will ultimately lead to a more efficient and effective civil justice system.