Pleadings and Motions
Motion Practice
A memorandum states the applicable standard, applies the law to the facts, and requests specific relief. Local rules govern format, length, and whether a separate memorandum is required or the argument may be included in the motion.
Page and word limits are enforced.
Alternative Names:
Legal Memorandum, Brief in Support
Why it Matters?
Length limits are enforced strictly and briefs exceeding them are stricken or the excess disregarded, which makes checking the local rule before drafting rather than after a practical necessity. Requests to exceed limits should be filed in advance rather than accompanying an oversized brief. The standard of review section is worth stating explicitly, since it frames everything that follows and courts appreciate its inclusion.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Are page limits strictly enforced?
What section is frequently omitted?
