What is a motion to strike?

A motion to strike is a legal document or request that asks the court to remove or dismiss a part or all of a legal pleading or document, such as a complaint or answer. This motion may be made by any party in a lawsuit, typically in response to a pleading or document that contains irrelevant, false, or improper allegations or claims. The most common grounds for filing a motion to strike include lack of legal merit, failure to state a claim, choice of the wrong forum, or violation of procedural rules. In order for a motion to strike to be granted, the court has to find compelling legal reasons that justify the dismissal or removal of the challenged pleading or document. The opposing party can typically respond to the motion to strike and argue against the requested relief.