Can you file an answer and motion to dismiss at the same time?

Asked by: Wayne Willms  |  Last update: June 27, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (36 votes)

A defendant making a motion to dismiss must do so before filing an answer or other responsive pleading, and the motion is generally due when the defendant's answer would have been due (see FRCP 12(b)Opens in a new window).

Can you file a motion to dismiss after filing an answer federal court?

Although most defenses to a complaint must be stated in the answer, a defendant can move to dismiss the complaint before filing an answer. Motions to dismiss typically make one or more of these arguments: The court lacks the authority or jurisdiction to decide the case or to compel a defendant to appear.

Can you file two motions at the same time?

Multiple motions in limine must be filed separately in separate pleadings. The functionality to file multiple motions in one document is not available in criminal cases. Motions in criminal cases can only request one form of relief.

What is the success rate of motions to dismiss?

Motions to dismiss are accordingly used very commonly in an attempt to reduce defense costs and achieve an early resolution of such claims. Indeed, motions to dismiss are filed in almost all securities cases, with an approximately 50% success rate.

What is a pre-answer motion to dismiss?

A pre-answer motion is a motion filed by a defendant before they file an official answer to the plaintiff's complaint. It is typically filed shortly after the defendant is served with the complaint and is an opportunity to challenge aspects of the lawsuit or request that the case be dismissed entirely or in part.

The Easiest Way to Defeat a Motion to Dismiss

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Should I file a motion to dismiss or an answer?

Generally, a defense attorney files the defendant's motion to dismiss before filing an "answer" to the complaint. It's crucial to include the reason for the dismissal of the case in the filing of initial documents. If a party fails to do so, it could result in a waiver of those grounds.

Can you file multiple motions to dismiss?

Defendants may move to dismiss some or all claims but can only make one motion to dismiss, asserting all defenses (other than those in FRCP 8(c)Opens in a new window) that were available when the motion was made (FRCP 12(g)Opens in a new window).

Can a judge ignore a motion to dismiss?

A motion to dismiss might be delayed if there is a question as to whether or not the party with the burden of proof can make a prima facie showing of their case. If it is a close call from the pleadings a judge may allow the plaintiff the opportunity to make that case (or not) before ruling.

How long does it take a judge to rule on a motion to dismiss?

It is difficult to provide an exact answer to this question, as the amount of time it takes for a judge to rule on a motion to dismiss can vary depending on a number of factors. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a judge to reach a decision on a motion to dismiss.

How to defeat a motion to dismiss?

To successfully defeat a motion to dismiss, a pro se plaintiff must rebut the following potential assertions:
  1. The plaintiff's allegations don't fit the facts of the case.
  2. There is a missing element of the claim.
  3. There are no factual allegations in the complaint, only conclusions.

How many motions can you file in court?

Generally speaking, no there are not a number of times you can file a motion in court. However, if you file the same motions and they are denied for the same reasons, the court may impose sanctions on you, which may include you having to pay a fine.

What happens when you second a motion?

When a motion is seconded, it indicates to the chairperson that at least two members would like the board to discuss the topic being presented. This process ensures that the board's valuable time is not wasted in discussing matters considered important by only one member.

Can 2 people be in motion at the same time?

While there are different rules regarding motion, most mandate that no more than one player may be in motion at the time of the snap, and the player must not be an offensive lineman (typically, the player in motion is a wide receiver or running back).

How long to file an answer after a motion to dismiss is denied?

Currently, the time to answer a complaint after a district court has denied a motionto dismiss is 14 days. See Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(a)(4)(A).

How to prove you were not served properly?

Surveillance: You can provide surveillance footage showing you were not served at the alleged date or that the service was improper. Mail Records: If there's no mail delivered to you or if you haven't signed the receipt. It can indicate improper service.

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.

Can you file a motion to dismiss instead of an answer?

Although most defenses to a complaint must be stated in the answer, a defendant can move to dismiss the complaint before filing an answer. Motions to dismiss typically make one or more of these arguments: The court lacks the authority or jurisdiction to decide the case or to compel a defendant to appear.

Why would a motion to dismiss be denied?

In a civil litigation, when a judge denies a defendant's motion to dismiss, the case continues instead of ending early. The plaintiff did not win the case, however, the defendant failed to convince the judge that the case (or at least one of the claims in the case) must end.

What is the lazy judge rule?

If the court fails to rule, on a motion of a party, commonly referred to as the Lazy Judge rule, the case may be withdrawn from the trial court judge and transferred to the Supreme Court for assignment to a Special Judge to decide. In most cases, it is not prudent or wise to file a lazy judge motion.

When can a motion to dismiss be granted?

Most often, a Plaintiff receives a Motion to Dismiss based on their “failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.” (Fed. R. Civ. P.

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.

What is the meaning of failure to respond?

: a refusal or failure to respond : lack of response. a nonresponse to a complaint. nonresponse to medical treatment. 2. : an empty or unsatisfactory response.

How many times can you file a motion to reopen?

Responses to motions to reopen are due within ten (10) days after the motion was received by the immigration court, unless otherwise specified by the immigration judge. (d) Number Limits — A party is permitted only one motion to reopen. 8 C.F.R. § 1003.23(b)(1) .

What is a Rule 42 motion to dismiss?

Rule 42. Voluntary Dismissal. (a) Dismissal in the District Court. Before an appeal has been docketed by the circuit clerk, the district court may dismiss the appeal on the filing of a stipulation signed by all parties or on the appellant's motion with notice to all parties.

What happens if you sue the wrong party?

The term “misjoinder,” on the other hand, refers to the situation where a plaintiff names a completely incorrect party. In this situation, the plaintiff has filed a lawsuit against a person or entity who should not have been included in the lawsuit. This is the more serious mistake that often results in dismissal.