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Motion For Reconsideration
A motion for reconsideration is a formal request asking the same court to change its own earlier decision in your case.
What it actually is
It is a procedural step filed after a court has issued a ruling, asking the judge to review and potentially reverse or modify that ruling based on an error of fact or law, or new evidence that could not have been presented earlier. This motion is typically filed before any appeal is taken, and it gives the court a chance to correct itself without needing a higher court's involvement.
Why it matters in your case
Filing this motion can be important because it may resolve an issue without the time and expense of an appeal. However, it does not automatically pause the case or extend deadlines unless the court grants a stay, so you must still comply with any existing orders.
The common misunderstanding
Many people mistakenly think a motion for reconsideration is the same as an appeal, but it is not—it asks the same judge to change their mind, not a higher court. Another common misunderstanding is that filing this motion automatically stops the clock on deadlines, which is generally not true.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.