Rule 56 Evidence Requirements

Parties must support factual positions with materials in the record; unsupported assertions cannot defeat summary judgment.

Related Pretrial & Disposition rules

• Summary Judgment StandardSummary judgment is proper when no genuine dispute of material fact exists and movant is entitled to judgment as a…
• JMOL StandardJudgment as a matter of law is proper when a reasonable jury would have no legally sufficient basis to find for the…
• Renewed JMOLA renewed JMOL may be made after a jury verdict if the party moved for JMOL at trial.
• New Trial StandardA new trial may be granted when errors, unfair prejudice, or a verdict against the great weight of evidence occurred.
• Default JudgmentDefault judgment enters when defendant fails to respond and plaintiff shows entitlement based on well-pleaded…
• Relief from Judgment (Rule 60)Rule 60 relief is available for mistake, new evidence, fraud, void judgments, or other extraordinary reasons.
• Voluntary DismissalA plaintiff may dismiss once without prejudice before an answer or summary judgment motion.
• Involuntary DismissalDismissal for failure to prosecute or comply with rules operates as adjudication on the merits unless stated otherwise.

Part of Civil Procedure on Core Legal Rules — foundational MBE-tested principles with primary-source citations.