Rule 5.01 Contents and Form

Here's a plain English summary of this rule:

When a judge writes a final judgment, it needs to include facts showing why the court has the right to hear the case and why it's being handled in that particular location. This protects both sides by making clear the case was decided in the proper place.

If the judgment grants more than one type of relief (for example, both custody and child support), each type needs its own numbered paragraph. This makes it easy to see exactly what the court decided on each issue, rather than having everything mixed together in one confusing block of text.

Judges also need to write judgments and orders in clear language. There shouldn't be room for confusion about what the ruling means or what each side is required to do. Vague or unclear wording can lead to more disputes down the road.

Finally, when a case goes to trial or is fully litigated, the judge decides who pays the court costs. The judge has discretion here, meaning they can look at the situation and decide which side, or both sides, should cover these expenses.