(a) In general. These rules govern the procedure for obtaining a declaratory judgment pursuant to the statutes of this state. Rules 38 and 39 govern a demand for a jury trial. The existence of another adequate remedy does not preclude a declaratory judgment that is otherwise appropriate. The court may order a speedy hearing of a declaratory-judgment.
Rule 57.Declaratory judgments
Title VII: Judgment · Last amended July 1, 2016 · Last verified July 14, 2026
In one sentenceRule 57 folds declaratory judgment actions into the normal civil rules, lets courts move them along quickly, and requires notice to known claimants in insurance coverage disputes.
Full Text of Rule 57
(b) Coverage under insurance policy. A party seeking a declaratory judgment as to coverage under a policy of insurance must give notice of the action to any person known to have a claim against the insured relating to the incident that is the subject of the declaratory action.
Amendment History
(Adopted March 1, 2016, effective July 1, 2016.)
Plain-English Summary
A declaratory judgment lets a party ask the court to settle a legal question, such as who owes what under a contract, before any harm has occurred or without seeking damages or an injunction. Rule 57 makes clear that these cases follow the same procedural rules as any other civil action, including the rules on jury trials. Having some other remedy available, like a breach of contract claim, does not stop a court from issuing a declaratory judgment if that remedy fits the dispute.
Because these cases often exist to resolve uncertainty quickly, the rule lets a court schedule a speedy hearing. It also imposes a special notice duty in one common scenario: when a party asks the court to declare whether an insurance policy covers a particular claim, that party must notify anyone known to have a claim against the insured arising from the same incident, so those interested people have a chance to be heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a declaratory judgment action under Rule 57?
It is a lawsuit asking the court to declare the parties' legal rights or obligations, often before a dispute has caused damages or without seeking an injunction. It follows the same procedures as other civil cases.
Does having another legal remedy available block a declaratory judgment?
No. The rule states that the existence of another adequate remedy does not prevent a court from issuing a declaratory judgment when one is otherwise appropriate.
Can a party request a jury trial in a declaratory judgment case?
Yes. Rule 57 points to Rules 38 and 39, the general rules governing jury trial demands, meaning the same jury trial rights and procedures apply here.
Who must be notified in an insurance coverage declaratory judgment action?
The party seeking a declaration about coverage must notify anyone known to have a claim against the insured arising from the incident at issue, so that person can participate or protect their interests.
Can a court speed up a declaratory judgment case?
Yes. The rule specifically authorizes the court to order a speedy hearing, recognizing that these actions often exist to resolve uncertainty before it causes further harm.
Source & verification. Rule text
are reproduced verbatim from the Idaho Rules of Civil Procedure, adopted by the
Supreme Court of Idaho. Last verified July 14, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: declaratory judgmentdeclaratory reliefdeclaratory judgment actinsurance coverage declaratory actionrule 57 idaho