Here’s a list of different types of motions that can occur in court cases:
- Motion to Dismiss: A request asking the court to dismiss the case. It might be because the plaintiff’s complaint doesn’t state a valid claim, or there’s a lack of jurisdiction, among other reasons.
- Motion for Summary Judgment: This motion asks the court to decide the case without a trial because there are no material facts in dispute, and the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.
- Motion to Suppress Evidence: A request to exclude certain evidence from being considered at trial, often on the grounds that it was obtained unlawfully or in violation of constitutional rights.
- Motion in Limine: A pretrial motion asking the court to prohibit the opposing party from introducing certain evidence or mentioning certain facts during the trial.
- Motion to Compel Discovery: A request asking the court to order the opposing party to provide requested discovery (e.g., documents, witness statements) that they have refused to provide voluntarily.
- Motion for Continuance: A request to postpone a scheduled court proceeding to a later date, usually because of some unforeseen circumstance or need for additional time to prepare.
- Motion for Change of Venue: A request to transfer the case to a different court or location, often due to concerns about getting a fair trial in the current venue.
- Motion for Recusal: A request asking the judge to disqualify themselves from presiding over the case due to a potential conflict of interest or bias.
- Motion for Joinder: A request to join additional parties to the lawsuit who may have an interest in the outcome or whose presence is necessary for a complete resolution of the dispute.
- Motion for Protective Order: A request seeking protection from certain discovery requests or other actions that may cause annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden.
- Motion for Sanctions: A request asking the court to impose penalties or sanctions against the opposing party or their attorney for improper conduct or violation of court rules.
- Motion for Default Judgment: A request for the court to enter a judgment in favor of the moving party because the opposing party has failed to respond to the lawsuit or otherwise comply with court orders.
- Motion for Reconsideration: A request asking the court to reconsider its previous ruling, usually based on new evidence, a change in the law, or the belief that the court made an error in its decision.
- Motion for Relief from Judgment: A request seeking to set aside or amend a final judgment or order, often due to newly discovered evidence, fraud, mistake, or other grounds for relief.
These are some common types of motions filed in court proceedings, but there may be others depending on the specific rules and procedures of the court and the nature of the case.