Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In North Dakota, court procedures for civil litigation are primarily governed by the North Dakota Rules of Civil Procedure. These rules outline the processes that parties must follow from the initiation of a lawsuit through its resolution, whether by trial or settlement. The pretrial phase includes filing of pleadings, discovery, and pretrial motions. During the trial phase, the rules govern the presentation of evidence and the conduct of the trial. After the trial, posttrial motions and the appeals process are also covered by these rules. Additionally, the North Dakota Century Code may contain statutes that apply to specific aspects of civil procedure, and local rules of court may provide further detail on procedures in specific jurisdictions within the state. It is important for parties to adhere to these procedures to ensure a fair and orderly legal process. An attorney can provide guidance on navigating these rules and representing a party's interests effectively in civil litigation.