A motion to dismiss is a formal request (usually in a written motion) asking the court to dismiss a lawsuit or case for one of the reasons described in the relevant state or federal rule of civil procedure.

A motion to dismiss is usually filed in the early stages of the litigation and may be required before the party files any other pleading. Some of the common bases on which a case may be dismissed by the court include: (1) statute of limitations expired; (2) lack of subject-matter jurisdiction; (3) lack of personal jurisdiction; (4) improper venue; (5) insufficient process; (6) insufficient service of process; (7) failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted; and (8) failure to join a party.

In Oklahoma, a motion to dismiss is governed by the Oklahoma Pleading Code, which is similar to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Attorneys may file a motion to dismiss on various grounds, including but not limited to the expiration of the statute of limitations, lack of subject-matter jurisdiction, lack of personal jurisdiction, improper venue, insufficient process, insufficient service of process, failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted, and failure to join a necessary party under Oklahoma law. This motion is typically filed after the complaint is served but before further pleadings are made. The court will consider the motion and, if it finds the arguments compelling, may dismiss the case either with prejudice (meaning the case is permanently closed) or without prejudice (allowing the plaintiff to correct the issues and possibly refile). It's important to note that specific procedures and requirements for filing a motion to dismiss can vary based on the court's local rules and the particular circumstances of the case.