A partyÂ’s written notice, under applicable procedural rules, that it is requesting the courtÂ’s determination on an issue pertaining to a pending litigation. Motions are typically used to resolve procedural issues such as discovery disputes or issues of the excludability of evidence, but may also seek dismissal of the case on the grounds that the pleadings do not state a cause of action, or summary judgment on the grounds that there is no disputed fact issue on which the other party could prevail.