What does "dispositive motion" refer to?

A "dispositive motion" is best understood as a motion that has the potential to resolve a case or a particular issue within a case without the need for a trial. Typically, this includes motions like those for summary judgment, where one party asserts that there are no genuine disputes of material fact, and therefore, the case can be decided on the basis of the law.

The nature of such motions is to dispose of legal issues decisively, thereby preventing the necessity for a trial on those matters. This function of a dispositive motion is crucial, as it allows for efficient judicial proceedings by eliminating cases or issues that do not require further examination through trial.

In contrast, options suggesting a motion to dismiss the case entirely or a motion for a change of venue focus on specific procedural aspects rather than the comprehensive ability to resolve matters decisively. Additionally, the specification that a motion filed by the plaintiff only would limit the understanding of dispositive motions, which can be filed by either party within litigation. Thus, identifying a dispositive motion as one that can dispose of a case without a trial encompasses the broader function of this type of legal motion.