Ex Parte Motion

Ex Parte Motion

Ex Parte Motion

Ex parte relief is available where notice would defeat the purpose of the relief or where immediate harm would occur before notice could be given. The moving party must certify the efforts made to notify or the reasons notice should not be required.

Courts scrutinize ex parte applications closely.

Alternative Names:

Ex Parte Application, Motion Without Notice

Why it Matters?

The certification requirement is enforced, and applications failing to describe notification efforts are denied without reaching the merits. Ex parte practice also carries a heightened candor obligation, since the court hears only one side and counsel must disclose material facts including those unfavorable to the applicant. Failing that obligation has produced sanctions and vacated orders.

Frequently asked questions

What must an ex parte application certify?

What must an ex parte application certify?

The efforts made to notify the opposing party, or the specific reasons why notice should not be required.

What heightened obligation applies?

What heightened obligation applies?

A duty of candor requiring disclosure of material facts including those unfavorable to the applicant, since the court hears one side.