What is a motion for summary judgment?

A motion for summary judgment is a legal request which asks the court to decide a case without going to trial. It is made when one party believes there is no dispute of fact and that the law, as applied to the facts, is clear. This motion is made when one party believes that it is entitled to judgment without any need for further proceedings. In Washington state, when a motion for summary judgment is filed, the court must take into consideration the statements and evidence provided by both parties. A judge will then decide whether to grant the motion and end the case or deny the motion and allow the case to move forward to trial. Summary judgment is often the most efficient and cost-effective way for a case to be resolved. Instead of having to go through the lengthy process of a trial, with costly expert testimony, discovery, and judges’ and attorneys’ fees, both sides may receive a resolution by a judge based on the documents and facts already provided. If the court rules in favor of the motion for summary judgment, the court can enter a judgment in favor of one of the parties. This judgment is final and may not be appealed except in very limited circumstances. If the court denies the motion for summary judgment, the case will proceed to trial.

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What is a motion for summary judgment?

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