Opinion ID: 2222973
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: By reason of the error described in division III the case must be reversed. There remains only a consideration of the proceedings to be ordered upon remand.

Text: Where, in a case tried by the court without a jury, the trial court errs as to the rule of law to be applied in considering the evidence in making its findings, the appellate court should vacate the findings made and remand the case with directions to reconsider the entire record and make new findings in the light of the applicable rule of law. 5 Am.Jur.2d, Appeal and Error, section 966, page 393. We have taken the same view. Houlahan v. Brockmeier, 258 Iowa 1197, 141 N. W.2d 545, Supp.Op., 258 Iowa 1205, 141 N.W.2d 924. See also In re Olson's Estate, 227 Minn. 289, 35 N.W.2d 439. The following language from Houlahan v Brockmeier, supra, is equally appropriate here: In the instant case there is no reason to believe the parties have not already fully explored the factual situation, and there is little or no cause to believe a new trial would develop additional enlightening or material evidence. In fact we are satisfied a new trial would here be nothing more than an idle gesture entailing needless additional expense for both parties, with attendant delay. The interests of justice dictate this case be reversed and remanded, and the trial court ordered to make new findings of fact and enter judgment accordingly. 258 Iowa at 1205, 141 N.W.2d at 550. Affirmed in part, reversed in part and remanded with directions. All Justices concur except RAWLINGS and McCORMICK, JJ., who concur in the result and REYNOLDSON, J., who takes no part.