N.D. Cent. Code § 27-14-08: Trial

If a copy of the complaint against the accused has been served upon the accused and the accused has been given an opportunity to be heard, the proceeding, when issue is joined, must be referred by the supreme court for the taking of testimony and the making of findings and recommendations. Upon the filing of such findings and recommendations, or upon the default of the accused, or upon the accused's plea of guilty, the court shall render such judgment as the case may require.