In re Special Task Force- Ark. R. Civ. P. 9 49 52 and Ark. R. App. P.-Civ. 8

Summary

The court adopted amendments to Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure 9, 49, and 52 establishing procedures for allocating fault to nonparties, including pleading notice and a prima facie evidentiary threshold. It also adopted an amendment to the civil appellate rule governing supersedeas bonds, including a $25 million maximum and an exception for asset dissipation intended to evade payment. The amendments to Rules 9, 49, and 52 became effective January 1, 2015, while the appellate-rule amendment became effective immediately.