What is a motion called that only has one side appear?

• A. A motion heard with both parties present.
• B. A motion decided by a panel of three judges.
• C. An ex parte motion.
• D. A consent motion.

Answer: (C)

An ex parte motion means a request filed by one party without the other side being present or served with notice. This is used when immediate relief is needed and waiting for the other party to appear could cause harm or prejudice. The moving party typically must show why urgent action is necessary and, if possible, arrange for the other side to be notified and given an opportunity to respond soon after. In practice, such orders are often temporary and subject to further hearing once the other party is in court.

The option describing a motion heard with both parties present refers to a normal, fully heard motion where both sides participate. The one about a panel of three judges describes who decides the motion, not whether both sides appear. The consent motion involves both sides agreeing to the relief, not one side appearing alone.