Rule 16 Trial

(a) Every small claims action shall be tried by the court without a jury. A judge may not be peremptorily challenged either under Civil Rule 42(c) or AS 22.20.022.

(b) The court may admit any evidence that is relevant and material, despite the fact that such evidence might be inadmissible under formal rules of evidence.

(c) The court may investigate the controversy between the parties either in or out of court. The investigation must be made in the presence of the parties and the findings of fact resulting from the investigation must be stated on the record or reduced to writing and placed in the case file by the court.

(d) Testimony shall be given under oath and may be given in narrative fashion, and the examination of witnesses shall be informal. An adverse party has the right to cross- examine a party or witness. The court may take an active role in the examination of witnesses.

(e) The court may, at any time, consult with the parties on the record for the purpose of reaching a compromise or conciliation.

(f) The date set for trial shall be not less than 15 days from the date the court mails notice of the trial date to the parties. (SCO 225 effective May 1, 1976; amended by SCO 674 effective June 15, 1986; by SCO 759 effective December 15, 1986; and by SCO 1758 effective October 14, 2011)