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What are the most common mistakes to avoid when drafting a motion for a new trial?

Introduction

Drafting a motion for a new trial is a critical task that requires meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the legal framework governing such motions. In Kenya, the process is primarily guided by the Civil Procedure Act (Cap 21) and the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010. This document will outline the most common mistakes to avoid when drafting a motion for a new trial, referencing relevant sections of Kenyan law.

Table of Contents

  1. Failure to Adhere to Procedural Requirements

    • Relevant Laws and Rules

    • Common Procedural Mistakes

  2. Inadequate Grounds for a New Trial

    • Legal Grounds for a New Trial

    • Common Mistakes in Stating Grounds

  3. Insufficient Evidence

    • Importance of Evidence

    • Common Mistakes in Presenting Evidence

  4. Poor Drafting and Formatting

    • Importance of Clarity and Precision

    • Common Drafting Mistakes

  5. Failure to Serve Properly

    • Service Requirements

    • Common Mistakes in Service

  6. Conclusion

1. Failure to Adhere to Procedural Requirements

Relevant Laws and Rules
  • Civil Procedure Act (Cap 21)

  • Civil Procedure Rules, 2010

Common Procedural Mistakes
  • Missing Deadlines: According to Order 45 Rule 1 of the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010, a motion for a new trial must be filed within a specific timeframe. Missing this deadline can result in the motion being dismissed outright.

  • Improper Filing: The motion must be filed in the correct court and in the proper format as stipulated by the Civil Procedure Rules. Failure to do so can lead to administrative rejection.

  • Incorrect Jurisdiction: Filing the motion in a court that does not have jurisdiction over the matter can render the motion invalid.

2. Inadequate Grounds for a New Trial

Legal Grounds for a New Trial
  • Order 45 Rule 1 of the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010: This rule outlines the grounds upon which a new trial may be granted, including:

    • Discovery of new and important evidence

    • Mistake or error apparent on the face of the record

    • Any other sufficient reason

Common Mistakes in Stating Grounds
  • Vague or General Grounds: Failing to specify the exact grounds for the new trial can weaken the motion. The grounds must be clearly articulated and supported by relevant facts.

  • Irrelevant Grounds: Stating grounds that are not recognized by the law, such as personal grievances or dissatisfaction with the judgment, can lead to the motion being dismissed.

3. Insufficient Evidence

Importance of Evidence
  • Order 45 Rule 1 of the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010: The rule emphasizes the need for new and important evidence that was not available during the original trial.

Common Mistakes in Presenting Evidence
  • Lack of New Evidence: Simply rehashing evidence that was already presented during the original trial is insufficient. The motion must introduce new evidence that could potentially alter the outcome of the case.

  • Unsubstantiated Claims: Making claims without providing the necessary evidence to back them up can weaken the motion. All claims must be supported by credible and admissible evidence.

4. Poor Drafting and Formatting

Importance of Clarity and Precision
  • Order 51 Rule 1 of the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010: This rule outlines the requirements for the format and content of motions.

Common Drafting Mistakes
  • Ambiguity: Using vague or ambiguous language can make the motion difficult to understand and weaken its impact.

  • Lack of Structure: A well-structured motion is easier to follow and more persuasive. Failing to organize the motion logically can confuse the court and undermine the argument.

  • Typographical Errors: Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from the professionalism of the motion and may lead to misunderstandings.

5. Failure to Serve Properly

Service Requirements
  • Order 5 of the Civil Procedure Rules, 2010: This order outlines the requirements for serving legal documents.

Common Mistakes in Service
  • Improper Service: Failing to serve the motion to all relevant parties in accordance with the rules can result in the motion being dismissed.

  • Lack of Proof of Service: Not providing proof that the motion was properly served can lead to delays and complications in the proceedings.

Conclusion

Drafting a motion for a new trial is a complex task that requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the relevant legal framework. By avoiding common mistakes such as failing to adhere to procedural requirements, stating inadequate grounds, presenting insufficient evidence, poor drafting, and improper service, one can significantly increase the chances of a successful motion. Always ensure that the motion is well-structured, clearly articulated, and supported by credible evidence to make a compelling case for a new trial.

Answered by mwakili.com