Memorandum of Law
(CT)

Summary

This template illustrates the general structure and format of a memorandum of law submitted in support of a motion in a civil action in Connecticut superior court. This general format also applies to a memorandum opposing a motion and may be modified for that purpose. This template includes practical guidance and drafting notes. You must file and serve a memorandum of law (also referred to as a brief) with the following types of motions: • Motions regarding joinder of parties under Conn. Practice Book §§ 9-18–9-22 • Motions to implead a third-party defendant under Conn. Practice Book § 10-11 • Motions to dismiss (see, e.g., Conn. Practice Book § 10-30 et seq.), except those filed under Conn. Practice Book § 14-3 (motion for dismissal for lack of diligence) • Motions to strike (see Conn. Practice Book § 10-39 et seq.) • Motions to set aside judgments under Conn. Practice Book § 17-4 • Motions for summary judgment (see Conn. Practice Book § 17-44 et seq.) Conn. Practice Book § 11-10(a). Even for motions for which a supporting memorandum is not required by the rules, consider submitting one if the legal and factual argument in support of the motion is lengthy or complex. Memoranda of law may be filed by other parties on or before the time the matter appears on the short calendar. Conn. Practice Book § 11-10(a). For example, a party's written opposition to a motion usually takes the form of an opposing memorandum of law. Memoranda and briefs concerning motions should comply with the general format requirements for filed papers generally. See Conn. Practice Book §§ 4-1, 4-2; Formatting Rules in Court Checklist (CT). In addition, memoranda must comply with the following specific format requirements: • Page limit. The memorandum may not exceed 35 pages in length, unless the court grants permission to file a longer memorandum. The court may in its discretion limit the length of the brief to less than 35 pages. • Spacing and font size. The text of the brief must be double-spaced, and the type font must be no smaller than 12 point. Conn. Practice Book § 4-6(a). The memorandum must "briefly" outline the pertinent claims of law and authority. Conn. Practice Book § 11-10(a). Headings and subheadings should be used to effectively organize and explain the grounds for the motion, the facts, authority, and argument. For further discussion on motion procedure, see Motion Practice: Making and Opposing a Motion (CT). For a form illustrating the general format and structure of a motion, see Motion (CT). For a listing of documents providing guidance relating to specific types of motions, see Motion Practice Resource Kit (CT).