Federal Land Bank Spokane v. Robert

This case arises from the foreclosure of a mortgage on farmland. After a bench trial, the district court found that Bethea and Robert Parsons had defaulted on a loan from Federal Land Bank. The default arose from failure to pay property taxes as required in the mortgage. The court directed foreclosure of the mortgage. On appeal, the debtors son, Robert Parsons, Jr., argues that the district court erred (1) in exercising jurisdiction; (2) in denying a request for a jury trial; (3) in dismissing a counterclaim alleging fraud by the Federal Land Bank; and (4) in conducting the trial when the regular court reporter was ill. He further asserts that his parents were denied a right to a hearing before the board of county commissioners on the nonpayment of taxes which resulted in the default. The bank challenges the standing of Robert Parsons, Jr., to bring and prosecute this appeal. Both parties seek attorney fees. We affirm the district courts judgment and award attorney fees to the bank.