On July 6, 2025, South Dakota made significant changes to its civil practice laws in an effort to streamline the legal process and improve access to justice for its residents. The new laws aim to make court proceedings more efficient, reduce delays, and promote fairness in civil cases.One of the key changes introduced by the South Dakota legislature is the adoption of electronic filing for all civil cases. This new system will allow parties to file documents and pleadings online, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and reducing the time and resources needed for processing. This move is expected to significantly speed up the litigation process and make it easier for parties to access court records and information.Another important change brought about by the new civil practice laws is the implementation of mandatory mediation for certain civil disputes. Under the new rules, parties involved in certain types of civil cases, such as family law matters and small claims disputes, will be required to participate in mediation before proceeding to trial. This is intended to encourage out-of-court settlements, reduce the burden on the courts, and help parties resolve their disputes more amicably and efficiently.Additionally, the new laws include provisions to streamline the discovery process in civil cases. Discovery, which is the process by which parties exchange relevant information and evidence before trial, can often be time-consuming and costly. The new rules set limits on the scope of discovery, impose deadlines for completing the process, and require parties to meet and confer to resolve disputes before seeking court intervention. These changes are aimed at reducing unnecessary delays and expenses in civil litigation.Overall, the changes to South Dakota's civil practice laws represent a significant step towards making the legal process more efficient and accessible for residents of the state. By implementing electronic filing, mandatory mediation, and streamlined discovery procedures, South Dakota is working to ensure that its courts operate more effectively and serve the needs of its citizens in a timely and fair manner.