Opinion ID: 1579481
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: The Appellate-Waiver Issue.

Text: Pursuant to the appellate-waiver doctrine, [o]ne who accepts material and substantial benefits under a judgment or decree may not ordinarily challenge the provisions under which such benefits are awarded. In re Bruce, 522 N.W.2d 67, 73 (Iowa 1994). To be effective, the waiver must be made voluntarily, intentionally, and with knowledge of the circumstances. Johnson v. Johnson, 301 N.W.2d 750, 752 (Iowa 1981). We have retreated from our strict application of the doctrine in earlier cases because of the potential for harsh results. Id. The burden of proof is on the party claiming waiver to show facts supporting such claim. Id. at 753. We view the payments here were made under compulsion of court order. According to the order, Marilyn's failure to make the payments would result in a sale of the company's assets. In view of the order, we can hardly say that Marilyn voluntarily made the payments. Hegtvedt v. Prybil, 223 N.W.2d 186, 188 (Iowa 1974) (Payment is not voluntary when it is made under compulsion of court order.). The motion to dismiss the appeal is denied.