Smo v. Black

Plaintiff brought this action for a declaratory judgment to establish her right to an easement over defendants’ property. The dispute centers on plaintiffs rights to park on defendants’ land and to use a footbridge spanning the Smith River. The trial court ruled in favor of plaintiff, and defendants appeal. We affirm in part and reverse in part.

Defendants own a ranch of about 272 acres along the Smith River. Two acres, containing their residence, are located on the west side of the river along Smith River Road; the balance is across the river. Plaintiffs property also lies across the river…