Iowa R. Civ. P. 1.901. — Trials and issues

A trial is a judicial examination of issues in an action, whether of law or fact. Issues arise where a pleading of one party maintains a claim controverted by an adverse party. Issues are either of law or fact. An issue of fact arises on a material allegation of fact in a pleading which is denied in an adversary's pleading or by operation of law. All other issues are issues of law which must be tried first.