What is the difference between a motion to dismiss and a motion for a more definite statement?

A motion to dismiss is a request for a judge to end a case without a trial because the plaintiff has not proven that they have a legal right to damages. A motion for a more definite statement is a request for the plaintiff to explain the details of their claim in more detail because the specifics of the claim are too vague or incomplete. The main difference between a motion to dismiss and a motion for a more definite statement is that with a motion to dismiss the court is deciding the validity of the claim, while with a motion for a more definite statement the court is just asking for more information. A motion to dismiss is generally more difficult to win than a motion for a more definite statement. In Washington, a motion to dismiss is governed by the rules in the Washington Code of Civil Procedure. Those rules give judges the authority to dismiss a case if the plaintiff has not adequately made their case. In contrast, a motion for a more definite statement is governed by the Washington Rules of Civil Procedure. A judge can grant a motion for a more definite statement when the defendants find the pleadings to be too vague or ambiguous. In other words, the judge wants the plaintiff to provide more specific facts or details about the claim in order to proceed. In short, a motion to dismiss is a ruling on the validity of a claim, while a motion for a more definite statement is a request for more information. A motion to dismiss is more difficult to win than a motion for a more definite statement in Washington.

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What is the difference between a motion to dismiss and a motion for a more definite statement?

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