Neuquén Province Implements New Adversarial Civil Procedure Code

On 1 August, Neuquén Province enacted the new Civil, Commercial and Adversarial Code (CPCA), replacing the 1975 procedural code and becoming the first Argentine province to use an adversarial model for civil and commercial cases. The reform, promoted by the provincial executive and approved by the legislature, shifts the role of parties and their lawyers to drive the process—presenting evidence, arguing and reaching agreements—while judges focus on guaranteeing due process and issuing rulings.

The new system digitises case files into a single electronic record and reserves oral hearings for complex matters, allowing parties to meet face‑to‑face with the judge to settle issues. It applies to claims such as traffic‑accident compensation, consumer rights, contractual breaches, succession and usucapion, but family matters remain excluded pending further debate. Court restructuring creates a first‑level Appeals Chamber (N° 1) for the Confluencia region and a Provincial Chamber (N° 2) covering the interior, including Vaca Muerta.

Key figures involved include Dr. Gustavo Mazieres, president of the Superior Court of Justice, who highlighted the broad consultation process; Gustavo Calvinho, the drafter of the bill; Aída Kemelmajer de Carlucci, who prepared the base text; and Manuel Castañón López, the province’s youngest civil judge, who will help explain the reform to the public.