Which Rule 60(b) ground is described as 'extreme or extraordinary, narrowly interpreted'?

• A. Rule 60(b)(4)
• B. Rule 60(b)(2)
• C. Rule 60(b)(1)
• D. Rule 60(b)(6)

Answer: (D)

Rule 60(b) has a catch‑all provision for relief from a final judgment that isn’t covered by the other specific grounds. The description “extreme or extraordinary, narrowly interpreted” refers to that final residual clause—relief only for truly exceptional circumstances that justify reopening a judgment. Courts treat this ground as a last-resort remedy and apply it sparingly to avoid undermining final judgments.

The other grounds cover specific situations: mistake or inadvertence or excusable neglect; newly discovered evidence that could not have been found earlier; fraud, misrepresentation, or misconduct by the opposing party; a void judgment; or a judgment that has been satisfied, released, or discharged. If any of those fit, they usually provide a clearer path than the catch-all. When none of those apply but justice requires relief due to something truly extraordinary, relief can be sought under the extreme-or-extraordinary ground.