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Civil procedure

special exceptions

While the purpose of a plaintiff’s petition or complaint is to inform the court and the defendant of what the plaintiff’s claims will be at trial, the purpose of special exceptions is to force clarification and specification in the pleadings when they are not clear, or sufficiently specific, or fail to plead a cause of action.

In Louisiana, the legal concept of 'special exceptions' is known as 'motions for a more definite statement' under the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure. These motions are used by a defendant when a plaintiff's petition (complaint) is vague or ambiguous and does not provide enough detail to allow the defendant to prepare an adequate defense. The purpose of these motions is to compel the plaintiff to clarify, specify, or provide additional information regarding the claims being made. If the court grants the motion, the plaintiff must file an amended petition that corrects the deficiencies. This procedural tool ensures that the issues are clearly defined and that the litigation process is fair and efficient. Failure to plead a cause of action or to provide sufficient detail can result in the dismissal of the claims if not properly amended after the court's order.

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Civil procedure

special exceptions

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Louisiana State Code

Louisiana State Code

Civil procedure

special exceptions

Articles