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In an effort to improve efficiency and streamline the court process, the Utah Judicial Council has proposed several changes to the Utah Rules of Civil Procedure. The proposed changes, which were announced on December 27, 2025, are designed to make civil litigation more accessible and affordable for all parties involved.One of the key changes being considered is the implementation of mandatory alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for certain types of cases. Under the proposed rule, parties would be required to participate in mediation or arbitration before proceeding to trial. This would help to resolve disputes more quickly and reduce the backlog of cases in the court system.Additionally, the proposed changes include revisions to the rules governing discovery and electronic filing. The amendments are aimed at modernizing the court's procedures and bringing them in line with current technology and best practices. For example, the proposed rules would require parties to submit documents electronically, which would save time and reduce the burden on court staff.Another significant change being proposed is the expansion of online dispute resolution (ODR) services. ODR allows parties to resolve their disputes online, without the need to appear in court. This would help to make the process more convenient and accessible for parties who may not be able to attend court in person.The proposed changes are currently open for public comment, and the Judicial Council is inviting feedback from attorneys, judges, and members of the public. Once the comment period has ended, the Council will review the feedback and make any necessary revisions before finalizing the new rules.Overall, the proposed changes to the Utah Rules of Civil Procedure are aimed at making the court process more efficient, affordable, and accessible for all parties involved. By modernizing the rules and procedures, the Judicial Council hopes to better serve the needs of litigants and improve the overall functioning of the court system.