How to file a motion yourself?

Asked by: Johanna Douglas  |  Last update: July 9, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (26 votes)

Things You Should Know
  1. Title your motion and identify yourself in the introduction. ...
  2. Write your legal argument by stating the rule and explaining how your facts apply to it. ...
  3. File your motion with the clerk of court overseeing your case.

Can you file a motion on your own?

In some circumstances, you file a petition or a motion. The court has several complaint forms that you may use in drafting your complaint. The forms are available online and at the Pro Se Intake Unit. You may also write your own complaint without using a court form.

How do you write your own motion?

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 ...

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.

Can a motion be filed online?

Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) is the federal Judiciary's system that allows case documents, such as pleadings, motions, and petitions, to be filed with the court online.

Attorney Steve discusses how to file a motion like a PRO

30 related questions found

How long does filing a motion take?

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.

When must a response to a motion be filed?

The response must be filed within 10 days after service of the motion unless the court shortens or extends the time. A motion authorized by Rules 8, 9, 18, or 41 may be granted before the 10-day period runs only if the court gives reasonable notice to the parties that it intends to act sooner.

What might an attorney file a motion for?

Common pre-trial motions include: Motion to Dismiss – an attempt to get the judge to dismiss a charge or the case. This may be done if there is not enough evidence, if the alleged facts do not amount to a crime. Motion to Suppress – an attempt to keep certain statements or evidence from being introduced as evidence.

How do you write a proper motion?

How to Write a Kick-Ass Motion
  1. Make an Outline. ...
  2. Keep Your Motion Simple. ...
  3. Maintain Credibility. ...
  4. Mind Your Citations. ...
  5. Focus on Facts. ...
  6. Keep Your Intro Short. ...
  7. Respect the Opposition. ...
  8. Write in English, Not Legalese.

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.

What do you say to start a motion?

To make a motion, you must first be recognized and given the floor by the meeting chairperson or presiding officer. Once you have the floor, state the motion as “I move (state your motion here).”

How to file a motion in criminal court without an attorney?

Write your legal argument by stating the rule and explaining how your facts apply to it. Then, add your signature, a Certificate of Service, and a Notice of Hearing. File your motion with the clerk of court overseeing your case. Then, give copies to each defendant.

Do judges read motions before court?

If you are referring to motions on legal issues the judge will review them in the course of the hearing or trial. If you are referring to documents to be submitted as evidence the judge may rule on their relevance and/or admissibility prior to going forward .

How to file a lawsuit with no money?

Contingency means that your lawyer will agree to take on your case and represent you without requiring any payment upfront, allowing you to file a case with no money. Your lawyer will only receive payment for their services if and when you reach a positive resolution and some form of compensation in your case.

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.

What does own motion mean?

In law, sua sponte (Latin: "of his, her, its or their own accord") or suo motu/suo moto ("on its own motion") describes an act of authority taken without formal prompting from another party. The term is usually applied to actions by a judge taken without a prior motion or request from the parties.

How do I submit a motion?

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.

What are the 5 examples of motion?

Running, cycling, jumping, swimming, eating, drinking, playing, writing, typing, moving cars, and throwing a ball are all examples of motion. Sleeping, sitting, standing, lying, a fixed clock, a bottle on a table, and a stopped car are all examples of rest.

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.

Do court motions need to be notarized?

Generally, the answer is no (at least not for an extension of time). The only motions that need to be notarized are verified motions, such as summary judgment.

What happens after you file a motion?

Navigating the motion hearing process

Motion hearings occur in person at the courthouse or can be done via virtual hearings. During the hearing, all parties involved in the case have an opportunity to present their arguments and evidence to a judge concerning a particular motion that has been filed.

What happens when a motion is denied?

The court will then decide as to whether the motion is granted or denied. If the motion is granted, it means that the document or proceeding in question is declared invalid or void. If the motion is denied, the document or proceeding remains in effect, and the case or legal process will continue.

How many motions can you file?

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 does rule 27 mean?

Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 27 permits depositions to perpetuate testimony “about any matter cognizable in a United States court” but the federal rules do not contain a provision regarding pre-complaint discovery generally.In jurisdictions where rules exist on pre-complaint discovery, they can be a valuable tool to ...

What happens when you file a motion to enforce?

The consequences of the motion: A motion to enforce, if approved, inflicts no punishment on the non-compliant party and instead serves as a reminder to fulfill their legal duties. Alternatively, a motion for contempt can result in jail time or fines for not following a verdict.