noun
A partyÂ’s written notice, under applicable procedural rules, that it is
requesting the courtÂ’s determination on an issue pertaining to a pending
litigation. Motions are typically used to resolve procedural issues such as discovery disputes or issues of the
excludability of evidence, but may also seek dismissal of the case on the
grounds that the pleadings do not state a cause of action, or summary judgment
on the grounds that there is no disputed fact issue on which the other party
could prevail.