DEFINITION

A contested matter is any one in which an objection has been filed. The contested matter shall be limited to facts and issues in dispute, and shall not affect other issues or pleadings before the court with respect to the same proceeding that are not in dispute, provided that no party is prejudiced thereby. COMMENTARY: This rule sets the stage for the rules that follow. Of importance is the recognition that a contested issue can be separated from the normal progress of the estate, conservatorship, guardianship, or trust, and dealt with separately, while normal uncontested matters may continue to be addressed in normal course while the contested issue is resolved. In this way, a proceeding is not completely put on hold because of a dispute about one issue. (Commentary amended April 28, 2006, effective July 1, 2006.)