What is a motion for summary judgment?

A motion for summary judgment is a type of motion used in civil procedure in California. It is a request by one of the parties to the lawsuit to the court to make a ruling on the case without the need for a trial. This motion is made on the grounds that there is no genuine dispute about the facts or the law in the case. In other words, the party filing the motion for summary judgment is arguing that there is no issue of fact to be decided by the jury or the court, or that the applicable law should be applied in a certain way and the outcome is clear. If the court agrees with the motion for summary judgment, it will render a judgment in favor of the party who filed the motion. If the court denies the motion for summary judgment, then the case will proceed to a trial. During the trial, both parties will present their evidence and arguments to the jury or judge who will then make a ruling on the case. In summary, a motion for summary judgment is a type of motion used in civil procedure where one party to a lawsuit requests that the court make a ruling on the case without the need for a trial, as it is argued that there is no genuine dispute as to the facts or the applicable law.

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