(1) The court may, in its sole discretion, issue a bench ruling following the close of the testimony in a case. If the court issues a bench ruling, the court utilizes the following procedure:

(a) The judge announces the decision to the parties in open court, outlining the factual and legal reasoning therefor.

(b) The judge may direct one of the parties, usually the prevailing party, to reduce the decision to writing by preparing written findings of fact, conclusions of law, and judgment.

(c) Following entry of the court's written findings of fact, conclusions of law, and judgment, the parties shall have the time set forth in ARM 24.5.320 in which to file objections to the court's decision and to request a rehearing pursuant to ARM 24.5.344.