These rules govern the procedure for obtaining a declaratory judgment under NRS Chapter 30 or other state law. 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 action.
Rule 57.Declaratory judgment
Group VII: Judgment · Last amended March 1, 2019 · Last verified July 14, 2026
In one sentenceRule 57 confirms that a request for a declaratory judgment follows the same civil procedure as any other claim, does not require showing the absence of another remedy, and can be put on an expedited hearing schedule.
Full Text of Rule 57
Amendment History
Amended eff. 3-1-19.
Plain-English Summary
A declaratory judgment asks the court to settle a legal question, such as whether a contract means what one side says it means or whether a statute applies to a given situation, without necessarily awarding damages or ordering anyone to do anything. The substantive right to bring that kind of claim in Nevada comes from statute, not from this rule. Rule 57 just makes sure the procedure around it is unremarkable: a declaratory judgment claim moves through the same rules as any other civil action, and the right to a jury trial is governed the same way it would be in any other case.
Two features stand out. First, a party does not have to show that no other remedy is available before seeking a declaration of rights — the fact that a lawsuit for damages or an injunction might also be possible does not shut the door on asking for a declaration instead. Second, because declaratory relief is often sought precisely to resolve uncertainty before it causes more harm, the court has discretion to move the case to a hearing faster than it might otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a declaratory judgment used for?
It asks the court to declare the parties' legal rights or the meaning of a contract, statute, or other legal relationship, without necessarily awarding damages or ordering specific conduct. It is a way to get clarity on a dispute before it escalates into something more costly.
Do I have to show I have no other legal remedy to get a declaratory judgment?
No. The rule expressly states that having another adequate remedy available does not prevent a court from granting a declaratory judgment that is otherwise appropriate.
Can I get a jury trial in a declaratory judgment action?
Yes, to the same extent you could in any other civil case. Jury trial demands and procedure follow Rules 38 and 39 just as they would in any other action.
Can the court hear my declaratory judgment case faster than a normal case?
Yes. The rule specifically allows the court to order a speedy hearing of a declaratory judgment action, recognizing that resolving the underlying uncertainty quickly is often the point of bringing the claim.
Where does the right to seek a declaratory judgment in Nevada come from?
From NRS Chapter 30 or other applicable state law. Rule 57 supplies the procedural mechanics for pursuing that kind of claim; it does not itself create the substantive right to relief.
Source & verification. Rule text, official Advisory Committee
Notes, and amendment history are reproduced verbatim from the Nevada Rules of Civil
Procedure, adopted by the Supreme Court of Nevada. Last verified July 14, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: declaratory judgment nevadadeclaratory relief ruledeclaration of rights lawsuitNRS chapter 30 declaratory judgment