This legal procedure is a request made to a court when an opposing party’s pleading (e.g., a complaint or answer) is so vague or ambiguous that the moving party cannot reasonably be required to frame a responsive pleading. For example, if a plaintiff’s complaint alleges negligence but fails to specify the negligent acts or omissions, a defendant might utilize this procedure to compel the plaintiff to provide more details before filing an answer.
The primary benefit lies in ensuring fair and informed legal proceedings. By clarifying unclear allegations, it allows the responding party to understand the charges and prepare an adequate defense. Historically, it serves as a tool to prevent “fishing expeditions” where one party attempts to uncover information without a clearly defined basis. Its function is not to obtain evidence or delve into the merits of the case, but rather to clarify the issues presented.