MSJ
Law & Legal abbreviation · Litigation
| Stands for | Motion for summary judgment |
|---|---|
| Categories | Law & Legal |
MSJ stands for Motion for summary judgment, a litigation abbreviation.
Request asking the court to decide a case, or particular claims, without a trial because there is no genuine dispute of material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. It is usually filed after discovery closes.
Example: Defendants filed their MSJ on all counts, arguing the emails show no evidence of intent.
Usage notes
Governed in federal court by Rule 56. A 1986 trio of Supreme Court cases, Celotex, Anderson v. Liberty Lobby and Matsushita, made summary judgment a central tool for disposing of weak claims. The court views the evidence in the light most favorable to the nonmoving party. A partial MSJ seeks to resolve only some claims or issues.
Related abbreviations
More litigation abbreviations
- LCIA – London Court of International Arbitration
- LOP – Letter of protection
- MDL – Multidistrict litigation
- MIL – Motion in limine
- MSA – Master Settlement Agreement
- MSC – Mandatory settlement conference
- MTD – Motion to dismiss
- MVA – Motor vehicle accident
- NIED – Negligent infliction of emotional distress
- NOA – Notice of appeal
- OC – Opposing counsel
- ODR – Online dispute resolution
See all 71 litigation abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not legal advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.