Motion (klopotannia) to a court

When you need it

A motion (клопотання) is a procedural request asking the court (and, in criminal proceedings, also the investigator or prosecutor) to take a specific step in a case. Typical examples:

• demand evidence you cannot obtain yourself;
• adjourn a hearing due to illness or travel;
• summon and examine witnesses;
• restore a missed procedural deadline;
• access the case file;
• hold the hearing by videoconference;
• order an expert examination, appoint an interpreter, secure the claim.

Where and how to file

A motion is filed in writing — via the court office, by post, or online through "E-Court" (cabinet.court.gov.ua, logging in with a QES or Diia.Signature) — or made orally at a hearing, where it is entered into the record.

What to state

A written motion should state:

• the court, case number, judge (if known);
• your procedural status (claimant, defendant, third party) and details;
• exactly what you are asking for — a clearly worded request;
• why — reasoning tied to the facts and the relevant procedural rule;
• annexes (evidence of valid reasons, etc.), date and signature.

How it is considered

The court decides the motion after hearing the other parties and issues a ruling. A refusal usually does not prevent re-filing if new circumstances appear.

In criminal proceedings a motion to the investigator or prosecutor must be considered within three days (art. 220 of the Criminal Procedure Code), and a refusal can be challenged before the investigating judge.

Legal basis

• Civil Procedure Code of Ukraine, arts. 84, 127, 240;
• Code of Administrative Procedure and Commercial Procedure Code — equivalent rules;
• Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, arts. 220, 350.