Opinion ID: 2107994
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Proposed Judgment

Text: [¶ 38] We have stated that fact-finding can be aided by parties submitting and trial courts considering and utilizing, where appropriate, draft findings of fact offered by either side. The key question is whether the court findings reflect the application of judgment by the court, and not simply one of the parties. In re Marpheen C., 2002 ME 170, ¶ 7, 812 A.2d 972, 974. [¶ 39] There are notable differences between Carla's proposed judgment and the judgment entered, including the court's refusal to award reimbursement support, and its reduction of Carla's proposed spousal support award from $5000 to $3500 per month. Although much of the proposed judgment and court judgment are the same, the court adjusted Carla's findings and added statements, making it evident that the resulting judgment is the result of the application of independent judicial thought to the process of making fact-findings and conclusions. Id. [¶ 40] The court therefore did not err in adopting Carla's proposed judgment. The entry is: Judgment affirmed.