What may the court strike from a pleading?

• A. An insufficient defense
• B. Any redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter
• C. A material defect in jurisdiction
• D. A request for a jury trial

Answer: (B)

Under Rule 12(f), a court may strike from a pleading certain kinds of content to keep pleadings focused and prevent prejudice. The key targets are redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter. This power helps trim away material that doesn’t advance the merits or could mislead the reader, without altering the substantive claims or defenses. The rule also authorizes striking an insufficient defense, but the listed categories—redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter—are the classic examples of what may be removed. A material defect in jurisdiction is a fundamental issue that cannot be cured by striking; lack of jurisdiction must be raised separately. A request for a jury trial is a procedural demand governed by other rules and isn’t something the court typically strikes from the pleading.