Can plaintiffs file a Rule 12(c) motion?

• A. Yes, both parties may file
• B. Yes, only plaintiffs
• C. No, only defendants may file
• D. Only the judge may decide

Answer: (A)

Rule 12(c) lets a party seek judgment on the pleadings after they are closed. The key point is that this is available to any party, not just defendants. So a plaintiff can move for judgment on the pleadings just as a defendant can. The standard is the same as for a 12(b)(6) motion: there must be no genuine issue of material fact and the movant must be entitled to judgment as a matter of law. If the pleadings themselves establish that there is no relief the court could grant, the court will grant the motion. If evidence outside the pleadings is presented, the court may convert the motion to summary judgment or limit itself to the pleadings, depending on the circumstances.