Is a motion for judgement on the pleadings a dispositive motion?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

A judgment on the pleadings is a dispositive motion because it seeks to end the case—or at least a claim—without a trial, based solely on the pleadings. In federal practice it’s typically brought under Rule 12(c). The motion argues that even taking the pleaded facts as true, the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. If the court agrees, there is no need for discovery or a trial, and judgment is entered based on the pleadings alone. That ability to resolve the merits without a trial makes it dispositive.