1.12.020

Upon failure of a defendant to appear at the time stated in the summons, the plaintiff may proceed to offer evidence including proof that the defendant was served with summons and the court may render a judgment granting such relief as the evidence warrants, provided that the defaulting party may apply in writing to reopen the case within twenty (20) days of a default judgment upon showing good cause for his failure to answer the summons. Upon failure of the plaintiff without just cause to appear at the time set by the summons for hearing, the court may dismiss the action with or without prejudice.