Can a non-attorney file a motion?

Asked by: Malachi Conn  |  Last update: September 15, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (16 votes)

Probably not. Generally represented defendants cannot file a motion on their own without their attorney.

How to file a motion without a lawyer?

If you want to file a motion, the process is generally something like this:
  1. You write your motion.
  2. You file your motion with the court clerk.
  3. The court clerk inserts the date and time your motion will be heard by the judge.
  4. You “serve” (mail) your motion to the other side.

Can you represent someone in court if you're not a lawyer?

In court cases, you can represent yourself or be represented by a lawyer. Even for simple and routine matters, you can't go to court for someone else without a law license.

Can someone file a motion on your behalf?

If you have an attorney who is representing you, the motion that s/he files on your behalf would also include an affirmation from your attorney.

What is the difference between a motion and a petition?

Petitions are the first step, introducing the case to the court, whereas motions are maneuvers within the ongoing litigation, addressing issues as they arise. This difference is critical, impacting how these documents are used to advance a party's position in the case.

Attorney Steve discusses how to file a motion like a PRO

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How to win a court case without a lawyer?

Seven Tips When Representing Yourself In Court
  1. Make a good impression. If you dress nicely, it tells the judge that you respect the courtroom and care about your case.
  2. Be respectful. ...
  3. Know what to ask. ...
  4. Arrive early. ...
  5. Tell your story. ...
  6. Come prepared. ...
  7. Use a lawyer if you need help.

Does a motion need to be notarized?

It can take the same form, need not be notarized. Under FRCP Rule 5(b), a motion can be served in person, by leaving it at the attorney's office, by mail or by sending it by electronic means if the person consented in writing to receive the motion in this manner.

How long does a motion take in court?

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.

What happens when someone files a motion against you?

If a motion is filed against you and you do not file a written opposition with the court, the judge could grant the other side's motion automatically. That means the other side could get whatever she is asking for in the motion. It also might mean you lose the case, depending on the motion that was filed.

What to do when no lawyer will take your case?

What to Do If a Lawyer Won't Take Your Case
  1. Don't give up right away—get a second opinion. Getting rejected by one personal injury lawyer doesn't necessarily mean that no lawyer will take your case. ...
  2. Ask for a referral. ...
  3. Ask about alternative types of fee arrangements. ...
  4. Consider small claims court.

What is the success rate of representing yourself in court?

So, using these findings as a barometer, we can assume that your success rate might be roughly 10% to 30% if you represent yourself in court. In other words, your odds of success should improve if you hire an attorney rather than going it alone in court.

Does a legal representative have to be a lawyer?

Is a representative a lawyer? A representative can be a lawyer or another litigant authorized to represent someone in a court of law. Lawyers are the most typical representative because the government and courts authorize them to represent clients.

How do I ask for a motion in court?

Oral motion - You can make a motion verbally (orally) while in court. This can be at the initial appearance, at a status appearance, or during a hearing. Usually, you can use an oral motion when the request is not complicated, or if it is an urgent request that you are hoping the judge will grant that day.

How to file a motion in family court?

Filing a motion in family court

At the courthouse, give your motion to the court clerk and pay the filing fee. Depending on your court, you might have to choose the motion hearing date yourself. The court clerk can usually help. The nonmovant will have time to file a written response before the hearing.

Can a non party file a motion?

Any person who is not a party to a proceeding may move for leave to file a non-party brief. The motion shall identify the interest of the applicant and shall explain the relevance of the brief to the proceeding.

Who can file a motion?

A motion is an application to the court made by the prosecutor or defense attorney, requesting that the court make a decision on a certain issue before the trial begins. The motion can affect the trial, courtroom, defendants, evidence, or testimony. Only judges decide the outcome of motions.

What happens after you make a motion?

To make a motion, a councilmember must first be recognized by the mayor. After the councilmember has made a motion (and after the motion is seconded if required), the chair must then restate it or rule it out of order, then call for discussion. Most motions require a second, although there are a few exceptions.

Can a judge refuse to hear a motion?

The judge, as the central figure, listens to the arguments, asks questions, and ultimately decides whether to grant or deny the motion.

Does a motion need to be signed?

Every pleading, written motion, and other paper shall be signed by at least one attorney of record in the attorney's individual name, or, if the party is not represented by an attorney, shall be signed by the party.

Can a document be legally binding without a notary?

Just like wills, there is generally no requirement that a contract be notarized in order to be legally binding. However, if a party who signed a business agreement decides to dispute that agreement in court, a notarized contract can help a great deal.

How should a motion be written?

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 ...

What not to say in court?

Don't mumble; speak loudly enough to be heard by everyone in the room. Don't lie about anything, not even white [small] lies. If you are discovered to be lying, the judge may find it hard to believe you when you are telling the truth.

How to file a motion to dismiss without a lawyer?

Steps to File a Motion to Dismiss
  1. Review the Complaint Thoroughly. Carefully read the plaintiff's complaint to identify any legal deficiencies. ...
  2. Research Relevant Laws and Precedents. ...
  3. Draft the Motion. ...
  4. Include a Conclusion. ...
  5. File the Motion with the Court.

What is the hardest thing to prove in court?

Of those four components, causation is often the hardest element to prove in court.