In a landmark decision, the North Dakota Supreme Court issued a ruling on July 8, 2025, that is set to significantly impact appellate practice in the state. The case in question, Smith v. Johnson, involved a complex legal dispute over property rights that had been ongoing for several years.The Supreme Court's ruling clarified the standard of review for appellate courts in North Dakota when considering challenges to lower court decisions. The court held that appellate courts should defer to trial courts' findings of fact unless they are clearly erroneous, reaffirming the long-standing principle that trial courts are in the best position to assess witness credibility and weigh evidence.In addition to outlining the standard of review, the court's decision in Smith v. Johnson also addressed the issue of preserving errors for appellate review. The court emphasized the importance of raising objections and issues at the trial court level in order to preserve them for appeal, reminding litigants that appellate courts are limited in their ability to address issues that were not properly raised and preserved in the lower court.The ruling in Smith v. Johnson is expected to have a significant impact on appellate practice in North Dakota moving forward, as it provides clarity and guidance on key issues that are central to the appellate process. Attorneys and litigants across the state are already taking note of the decision and its implications for their own cases.In response to the ruling, legal experts and practitioners in North Dakota are anticipating a potential increase in the number of appeals filed, as the decision may make it easier for parties to challenge lower court decisions. However, they also caution that the ruling underscores the importance of proper procedure and preservation of issues in order to ensure a successful appeal.Overall, the Supreme Court's decision in Smith v. Johnson represents a significant development in North Dakota appellate practice, providing much-needed clarity and guidance for attorneys and litigants navigating the appellate process in the state. As appellate courts continue to grapple with complex legal issues, the ruling is sure to have a lasting impact on the practice of law in North Dakota for years to come.