—Functions of Special Finding

A special finding of facts under Section 17-5 should rarely be requested or made but when made it becomes a part of the record with the same effect as though the facts were included in the judgment and claims of error may be based upon it as appearing of record. If the special find- ing is insufficient to support the judgment, the error is one upon the record. The purpose of a special finding is to place upon the record the material facts upon which the judgment is based; other matters have no place in it and can only be presented in a finding made for the purpose of an appeal. A special finding is an incident to the judgment, and interlocutory rulings should not be included in it. The rules as to seeking corrections in a finding for an appeal have no application to a special finding. (P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 333.)