Understanding Motions for Summary Judgment

Litigation can feel overwhelming. Between discovery, motions, and the possibility of trial, many business owners wonder how disputes actually get resolved in court. One of the most important tools in modern litigation is the motion for summary judgment. It can end a case—or a major part of it—before trial ever begins.

Here’s a breakdown of what summary judgment is, how it works, and why it matters for anyone involved in a lawsuit.

What Is Summary Judgment?

At its core, summary judgment is a way for a judge to decide a case—or part of a case—without a full trial. After discovery (when both sides exchange evidence), one party can ask the judge to rule in their favor because:

• The key facts are not in dispute, and

• The law clearly supports their position.

In other words, if no reasonable jury could find for the other side, there’s no need to go through the time and expense of trial.

Why Is It Important?

• Efficiency: Trials are expensive and time-consuming. Summary judgment can resolve disputes more quickly.

• Focus: Even if it doesn’t end the entire case, summary judgment can narrow the issues for trial, saving resources.

• Leverage: Winning—or even filing—a strong summary judgment motion can increase settlement pressure. It signals confidence and may lead to favorable negotiations.

• Risk management: For defendants, it’s an opportunity to eliminate claims without facing a jury. For plaintiffs, it can secure a judgment without the uncertainty of trial.

  
  

The Legal Standard for Summary Judgment

Courts apply a specific standard when deciding these motions. In most jurisdictions (including federal courts):

• The moving party must show there is no genuine dispute of material fact, and

• They are entitled to judgment as a matter of law.

Breaking That Down:

• Material fact: A fact that could affect the outcome of the case.

• Genuine dispute: Evidence exists on both sides that a jury could reasonably interpret differently.

If the evidence is one-sided—so clear that no reasonable jury could disagree—the judge can grant summary judgment.

How Do Judges Decide?

Judges don’t weigh credibility or make factual findings at this stage. Instead, they:

• Look at the evidence in the light most favorable to the non-moving party.

• Decide whether there’s enough evidence for a jury to potentially rule in their favor.

If the answer is “no,” summary judgment is granted.

Why It’s Critical in Litigation

• Case-ending power: A granted summary judgment motion can end the lawsuit entirely.

• Partial wins: Courts can grant summary judgment on certain claims or issues, simplifying what remains for trial.

• Strategic impact: Even a denied motion forces the other side to show their hand, revealing weaknesses.

• Appeal opportunities: Summary judgment rulings can sometimes be appealed before trial, adding another layer of strategy.

Practical Example

Imagine a contract dispute where a vendor sues a business for breach of contract. If the business can show undisputed emails and signed agreements proving the vendor missed deadlines first, the judge may rule for the business at summary judgment—ending the case before trial.

Final Thought

Summary judgment is one of the most powerful tools in litigation. It’s not just a technical motion—it’s often the turning point in a case. For business owners, understanding what it is and why it matters can help you better evaluate risk, settlement options, and legal strategy.

This blog is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. If you’re involved in a lawsuit, consult with experienced counsel to navigate motions and litigation strategy effectively.