How to Write a Kick-Ass Motion Make an Outline. Keep Your Motion Simple. Maintain Credibility. Mind Your Citations. Focus on Facts. Keep Your Intro Short. Respect the Opposition. Write in English, Not Legalese.
Overview You write your motion. You file your motion with the court clerk. The court clerk inserts the date and time your motion will be heard by the judge. You “serve” (mail) your motion to the other side. The other side files a written opposition to your motion with the court.
Steps Check if the court has blank motion forms. Some courts have "check the boxes" or "fill in the blank" motion forms. Create your caption. Title your motion. Draft the introductory paragraph to the body of the motion. Request relief. Lay out the applicable facts. Make your legal argument. Insert a signature block.
Be as persuasive as possible as you write your motion in a sequential, logical format. Express your ideas clearly, and make sure you outline what steps are necessary and how they will help your case. Use facts of the case whenever you can to avoid baseless emotional appeals.
How to Write a Kick-Ass Motion Make an Outline. Keep Your Motion Simple. Maintain Credibility. Mind Your Citations. Focus on Facts. Keep Your Intro Short. Respect the Opposition. Write in English, Not Legalese.
Drafting the Motion Check if the court has blank motion forms. Create your caption. Title your motion. Draft the introductory paragraph to the body of the motion. Request relief. Lay out the applicable facts. Make your legal argument. Insert a signature block.
Steps to File a Motion to Dismiss Review the Complaint Thoroughly. Carefully read the plaintiff's complaint to identify any legal deficiencies. Research Relevant Laws and Precedents. Draft the Motion. Include a Conclusion. File the Motion with the Court.
General format - each motion generally consists of a case caption, a title that briefly identifies the relief sought, a series of numbered paragraphs that explains -- in a logical way -- why you are entitled to that relief, a prayer for relief, a signature block, a certification that a copy of the motion was sent to ...
A motion is heard on a 24 day cycle, meaning that when you file a motion, you can expect that your case will be scheduled before a judge within approximately 24 days. There is often times a motion can be delayed when an adjournment is requested or when the court's calendar requires.