What result is being sought by a motion for judgement on the pleadings?

• A. a judgment
• B. a dismissal without prejudice
• C. an order compelling discovery
• D. a new trial

Answer: (A)

Judgment on the pleadings is the process of asking the court to decide the case based solely on the pleadings themselves, treating the allegations in the complaint and the answer as true, and determine that the moving party is entitled to relief as a matter of law. Because it rests only on legal sufficiency and not on any evidence obtained through discovery or at trial, the result sought is a judgment entered in favor of one side. It’s not about dismissing the case, compelling discovery, or granting a new trial—those serve different purposes. This tool is appropriate when there are no genuine disputes about material facts, and the law clearly favors one party based on the pleadings. If facts are disputed, a judgment on the pleadings wouldn’t be appropriate, and courts would look to summary judgment (with evidence) or proceed to trial.