What Are The Different Types Of Motions

What Are the Different Types of Motions? A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the various types of motions is crucial in numerous fields, from parliamentary procedure and legal proceedings to scientific inquiry and even everyday decision-making. This comprehensive guide delves into the diverse world of motions, explaining their classifications, purposes, and practical applications. We'll explore different types of motions across various contexts, clarifying the nuances and distinctions between them.

Categorizing Motions: A Multifaceted Approach

Motions can be categorized in several ways, depending on the context and the governing rules. However, some common categorizations include:

1. Based on Their Purpose and Effect:

This is perhaps the most common method of classifying motions. Here, we differentiate motions based on what they aim to achieve:

• Main Motions: These are the primary motions that initiate discussion and action on a specific proposal. They introduce new business for the assembly to consider. Examples include proposing a new rule, suggesting a specific course of action, or recommending a policy change. Main motions require a second, are debatable, and require a majority vote for passage.

• Subsidiary Motions: These motions act upon main motions. They modify, postpone, or otherwise affect the handling of a main motion. Examples include:

  • Amendments: Used to alter the wording or substance of a main motion.
  • Postponement: Delaying consideration of a main motion until a later time. This can include postponement to a specific date, postponement indefinitely (effectively killing the motion), or referring it to a committee for further review.
  • Table (Lay on the Table): Temporarily suspending consideration of a main motion, often to allow for further information gathering or to address more pressing issues.
  • Previous Question: This motion calls for an immediate vote on the pending motion(s), cutting off further debate.
  • Limit or Extend Debate: Motions to limit or extend the time allowed for debate on a specific motion.
  • Point of Order: A motion to raise a procedural issue or question of parliamentary procedure. This isn't a substantive motion, but rather a clarification.

• Privileged Motions: These motions take precedence over all other motions and are generally related to the immediate needs of the assembly. They usually address urgent matters requiring immediate attention. Examples include:

  • Adjournment: A motion to end a meeting.
  • Recess: A motion to temporarily suspend a meeting for a specified period.
  • Questions of Privilege: Motions raised to address matters affecting the rights and privileges of members, such as disruptions or safety concerns.

• Incidental Motions: These motions arise incidentally during the consideration of other motions. They address procedural questions that occur in the course of debate or voting. Examples include:

  • Appeal: A motion to overturn a ruling made by the chair.
  • Suspension of Rules: A motion to temporarily set aside the established rules of procedure.
  • Objection to the Consideration of a Question: A motion to prevent a specific item from being considered.
  • Parliamentary Inquiry: A request for clarification or information regarding parliamentary procedure.

2. Based on the Level of Formality:

The level of formality associated with a motion depends heavily on the context.

• Formal Motions: These are motions that follow specific procedural rules, often requiring a written submission, seconding, and a formal vote. They're typically used in more formal settings such as legislative bodies, corporate meetings, or academic conferences.

• Informal Motions: These are motions that may not require strict adherence to procedural rules. They're often used in less formal settings, such as team meetings or casual group discussions. An example might be a suggestion made during a brainstorming session.

3. Based on the Decision-Making Process:

Motions can be categorized based on the way they are handled and the decision-making process involved.

• Unanimous Consent Motions: These motions require the agreement of all members present. They are often used for straightforward, non-controversial matters. If even one member objects, the motion fails.

• Majority Vote Motions: The most common type of motion, requiring a simple majority of votes (more than half) to pass.

• Supermajority Motions: These require a higher percentage of votes than a simple majority to pass, such as a two-thirds majority or three-quarters majority. These are typically used for more significant decisions, such as constitutional amendments.

Motions in Specific Contexts:

The types of motions used and their application vary considerably depending on the context.

1. Parliamentary Procedure:

Robert's Rules of Order is a widely used guide for parliamentary procedure, which defines and explains various types of motions and their precedence. Understanding these rules is vital for conducting efficient and fair meetings in organizations like clubs, societies, and legislative bodies. The categorization above, based on purpose and effect, is heavily influenced by Robert's Rules.

2. Legal Proceedings:

In legal proceedings, motions play a crucial role in managing the flow of the case. Examples include motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, motions in limine (to exclude evidence), and motions for a new trial. These motions have specific legal requirements and are governed by the rules of civil or criminal procedure.

3. Scientific Inquiry:

While not explicitly termed "motions," similar processes exist in scientific inquiry. Proposals for research, amendments to research designs, and decisions on data analysis methods all share similarities with the concept of motions in a formal setting.

4. Everyday Life:

Even in everyday life, we frequently encounter the principles of motions. A suggestion to change plans, a proposal for a new activity, or a request to postpone a task all involve similar dynamics to formal motions.

Understanding Motion Precedence:

In many formal settings, motions have a specific order of precedence. This means some motions take priority over others. For instance, a motion to adjourn typically takes precedence over a main motion. This ensures that urgent matters are addressed promptly. Understanding motion precedence is essential for effective meeting management and to avoid procedural confusion.

Crafting Effective Motions:

Regardless of the context, an effective motion should be:

• Clear and Concise: Use precise language to avoid ambiguity.
• Specific: Clearly state the desired outcome or action.
• Relevant: The motion should be pertinent to the meeting's purpose.
• Well-Supported: Provide justification or evidence to support the motion.

Conclusion:

The world of motions is multifaceted and intricately connected to efficient decision-making and procedural fairness. Understanding the different types of motions, their purposes, and their precedence is crucial in a vast range of contexts, from formal parliamentary proceedings to informal group discussions. By mastering the principles of motions, individuals can contribute effectively to discussions, ensure fair processes, and achieve desired outcomes in various settings. This comprehensive guide serves as a foundational resource for navigating the complexities of motions and effectively utilizing them in different environments. Remember that the specific rules and terminology might vary depending on the governing rules and the context in which they are used. Always refer to the applicable rules of procedure for accurate guidance.