Rule 77

(a) Setting Cases for Trial. Unless the court has already set a trial on its own or at a resolution management conference or a scheduling conference, any party may file a motion to set a case for trial. The motion must state:

(1) the date by which the case will be ready for trial;

(2) the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the parties or their attorneys who are responsible for the conduct of the litigation;

(3) whether the case is entitled to a preference for trial because legal decision-making or parenting time is at issue; and

(4) the estimated time for trial.

(b) Continuances and Scheduling Conflicts. Rule 34 addresses trial continuances and scheduling conflicts.

(1) Time Limits. The court may impose reasonable time limits appropriate to the proceedings. A party may request additional time.

(2) Decorum. All participants must conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, and dignified manner. Parties must address their arguments and remarks to the court and not to the other parties or their counsel.

(3) Examining a Witness. Unless allowed by the court, only one attorney for each party may examine a witness.

(d) Procedures for Trials and Evidentiary Hearings.

(1) Procedures Applicable to All Trials and Evidentiary Hearings. The court should adopt procedures for trials and evidentiary hearings as necessary or appropriate to facilitate a just, speedy, and efficient resolution of the action, including but not limited to imposing reasonable time limits and allocating trial time between the parties. In all trials and evidentiary hearings, the court must ensure that all parties and counsel, if any, have an opportunity to be heard; to present evidence; and to call, examine, and cross-examine witnesses.

(2) Additional Procedures Applicable to Trials and Evidentiary Hearings with a Self-Represented Party. In addition to the procedures of Rule 77(d)(1) and absent a request otherwise before testimony begins, the court will conduct the direct examination of a self-represented party on the issues raised by the parties' pleadings, pretrial statements, and notices of issues. The court must allow a self-represented party to, within that party's allotted trial time, (1) testify about relevant information not addressed by the court's direct examination; (2) conduct their own direct examination upon request; and (3) cross-examine any other parties and their witnesses.

(3) Additional Procedures Applicable to IV-D Child Support Hearings. In addition to the procedures of Rule 77(d)(1), the court may examine a witness.