Rule 2-305. Claims for Relief

A pleading that sets forth a claim for relief, whether an original claim, counterclaim, cross-claim, or third-party claim, shall contain a clear statement of the facts necessary to constitute a cause of action and a demand for judgment for the relief sought. Unless otherwise required by law, (a) a demand for a money judgment that does not exceed $75,000 shall include the amount of damages sought, and (b) a demand for a money judgment that exceeds $75,000 shall not specify the amount sought, but shall include a general statement that the amount sought exceeds $75,000. Relief in the alternative or of several different types may be demanded.

Committee note: If the amount sought exceeds $75,000, a general statement to that effect is necessary in order to determine if the case may be removed to a federal court based on diversity of citizenship. See 28 U.S. C.S. § 1332. A specific dollar amount must be given when the damages sought are less than or equal to $75,000 because the dollar amount is relevant to determining whether the amount is sufficient for circuit court jurisdiction or a jury trial.

Committee Notes

Cross reference: For pleading requirements and other procedures when attorneys' fees are claimed, see the Rules in Title 2, Chapter 700. Source: This Rule is derived in part from former Rules 301 c, 340 a, and 370 a 3 and the 1966 version of Fed. R. Civ. P. 8(a) and is in part new.