Which is true about pleadings listed in a procedural rule?

• A. A lawyer may fill all of them without court permission.
• B. A lawyer cannot fill all of them without court permission.
• C. A lawyer can fill some but not all.
• D. A lawyer must file them through a magistrate.

Answer: (B)

Not every pleading listed in a procedural rule can be filed at the lawyer’s discretion. Some pleadings require leave, or permission, from the court before they may be submitted. The court grants that permission to control what is brought before it, prevent improper or duplicative filings, and ensure the case stays within the proper procedural scope. Because of this, a lawyer cannot fill all of the listed pleadings without court permission—the rule recognizes that certain filings must be vetted or authorized by the court first. In practice, you’ll see standard pleadings (like a typical complaint or answer) that can be filed as a matter of right, but other, more unusual or potentially suit-altering pleadings must obtain prior court approval.