The North Dakota Supreme Court convened on December 12, 2024, to hear the case of Christine Walden versus Shea Walden, identified as file number 20240131. The session featured appearances from Erica Chisholm, representing the appellant Shea Walden, and Tracy Lindbergh, representing the appellee Christine Walden. The justices presiding over the case included Justice Daniel Carothers, Justice Lisa Fair McEvers, Justice Douglas Barr, Justice Jared Tufty, and Justice John Jensen.

Erica Chisholm initiated the proceedings by outlining the basis of the appeal brought forth by Shea Walden. The appeal challenges the findings and judgment made by Judge Bradley A. Cruff from Richland County, specifically regarding the award of spousal support to Christine Walden and the distribution of property and debt.

Chisholm emphasized that the appeal centers on two main issues: the district court's determination that Christine Walden was in need of spousal support and that Shea Walden had the financial capacity to provide it. Additionally, she contested the court's decision to deviate from the statutory guideline of 60% of the length of the marriage in determining the spousal support award.

The session marked a significant moment in the ongoing legal discourse surrounding spousal support and property distribution, with the justices poised to consider the arguments presented by both sides. Further deliberations and decisions from the court are anticipated as the case progresses.