Opinion ID: 1428275
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: standard of review for summary adjudication process

Text: ¶ 7 The focus in summary process is not on the facts which might be proven at trial ( i.e., the legal sufficiency of evidence that could be adduced), but rather on whether the tendered material in the record reveals only undisputed material facts supporting but a single inference that favors the movant's quest for relief. [4] Summary processa special pretrial procedural track to be conducted with the aid of acceptable probative substitutes [5] is a search for undisputed material facts that, sans forensic combat, may be applied in the judicial decision-making process. It is a method for identifying and isolating non-triable fact issues, not a device for defeating the opponent's right to trial by jury. Only those evidentiary materials which eliminate from trial some or all fact issues may afford legitimate support for nisi prius resort to summary process. ¶ 8 The issues stand before us for de novo examination. [6] In reviewing any order of summary adjudication, the court may consider, in addition to the pleadings, such items as depositions, affidavits, admissions, answers to interrogatories, and other evidentiary materials submitted by the parties, which are in an acceptable form. All facts and inferences must be viewed in the light most favorable to the non-movant. Only if the court should conclude that there is no substantial controversy over any material facts is the movant entitled to summary judgment to be rested on the applicable law. [7]