Civil cases digital filing soon

The Supreme Court (SC) has mandated electronic filing and service of pleadings, judgments, and other documents in civil cases starting 1 December 2024.

In a statement, the SC said that the new rule — which amends Rule 13 of the 2019 Amendments to the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure — applies to all trial courts except for initiatory pleadings.

The SC’s Interim Rule on Electronic Filing and Service of Pleadings, Judgments and Other Papers in Civil Cases aims to modernize the judicial process and improve efficiency.

To recall, trial courts on 1 September 2024, only accepted physical filings accompanied by electronic copies submitted via email.

By 1 December 2024, electronic filing will become the primary mode of submission for all pleadings and court documents.

The SC’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 includes the development of eCourt PH 2.0, a comprehensive digital case management system which will enable digital filing and service, digital case dashboards, digitalization of case records, digital appeals, and digital criminal and special proceedings.

The implementation of these reforms is expected to streamline court processes, reduce delays, and enhance access to justice.