316    Motions Relating to Pleadings

In opposition and cancellation proceedings, there is a wide range of motions relating to pleadings, including motions to dismiss, for a more definite statement, to strike, for judgment on the pleadings, to amend pleadings, etc. For information concerning these motions, see TBMP Chapter 500.

Please Note: The filing of various pleading motions under Fed. R. Civ. P. 12 will effectively act to stay the parties’ obligations to conference and, subsequently, make initial disclosures. [ Note 1.] In any case in which a defendant files a motion under Fed. R. Civ. P. 12 directed to plaintiff’s pleading, the Board will suspend the case for decision on the motion and (usually in the same order) reset the deadline for the discovery conference as well as all subsequent dates. [ Note 2.]

For more information regarding the parties’ obligations with respect to initial disclosures and the discovery conference, see TBMP § 401.01, TBMP § 401.02, TBMP § 408.01(a), and TBMP § 408.01(b).

NOTES:

 1.   Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules, 72 Fed. Reg. 42242, 42245 (August 1, 2007).

 2.   Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules, 72 Fed. Reg. 42242, 42255 (August 1, 2007).