What it is
A request asking the court to change a judgment shortly after it is entered. It is not a chance to reargue everything; it targets clear legal error, newly discovered evidence, intervening law, or the need to prevent manifest injustice.
Post-trial · Rule 59(e)
Motion to Alter or Amend Judgment
Asks the court to revise a judgment soon after entry because of serious error, new evidence, or changed law.
When it's used
Filed after final judgment when a party believes the judgment contains a serious error or must be revised before appeal. Timing is strict and cannot simply be extended by agreement.
What the other side does
The opponent argues the movant is repeating old arguments, raising evidence too late, or trying to use Rule 59(e) as a substitute for appeal.
Common outcomes
The court may amend the judgment, deny the motion, correct a narrow error, or clarify reasoning. A timely motion can affect appeal deadlines.
Not legal advice. Motion practice varies by court,
judge, and case type. Local rules and standing orders frequently
modify the federal defaults shown here. If you're facing a motion
or considering filing one, talk to a lawyer about strategy and
timing for your specific case.