Bill > SJR006

This joint resolution amends Rule 42 of the Utah Rules of Civil Procedure, which governs the consolidation of actions, separate trials, and venue transfers. Key changes include clarifying the factors courts should consider when deciding to consolidate cases, such as complexity, potential for inconsistent rulings, and convenience, and specifying that a consolidated case will generally be heard by the judge assigned to the first-filed action. It also introduces a new provision for medical malpractice cases, preventing the factfinder from considering evidence of a claimant's alleged losses for past medical expenses or equipment costs before liability is established and noneconomic damages are adjudicated. The resolution also details procedures for transferring cases to a proper venue or to the business and chancery court, outlining when deference will be given to the plaintiff's choice of venue and the factors courts should consider in transfer decisions. Additionally, it allows for the convening of a district court panel to hear certain actions, with specific timelines and conditions for filing such a notice. The resolution takes effect upon a two-thirds vote of each house of the legislature, and it includes a clause coordinating its effect with another related resolution, S.J.R. 5.