Which option correctly describes the basis for sanctions under Rule 11 (b) (1)-(4)?

• A. The basis is found in sections (a)-(d)
• B. An explanation of the basis for the sanction under sections (b)(1)-(4)
• C. A description only of the conduct
• D. A reference to the court's general authority

Answer: (B)

Rule 11 sanctions are triggered by the attorney’s certifications about what’s in the filing. When someone signs a pleading or other paper, they certify four things: the filing isn’t for an improper purpose; the claims and legal contentions are warranted by existing law or a nonfrivolous argument for extending or modifying it; the factual contentions have evidentiary support or will likely have such support after discovery; and the denials of factual contentions are warranted by evidence or reasonably based on belief or lack of information. If those certifications are false, the court may impose sanctions. So the basis for sanctions under Rule 11 (b) (1)-(4) is the explanation of those grounds—i.e., what is alleged to violate those specific certifications.