Rule 1.1 Scope

These rules cover how court cases work in North Dakota. They apply to every trial court in the state, whether the case is civil, criminal, or juvenile. They also apply to the appeals courts, as long as no other specific rule or order says otherwise.

In simple terms, this rule sets the baseline. If you have a case in North Dakota, these rules likely apply to you no matter what type of case it is or what level of court you're in. The only exception is when a more specific rule, like an appellate rule or a special court order, covers your situation instead. When that happens, the more specific rule takes priority over this general one.