What is the consequence if a motion for relief based on newly discovered evidence is filed after one year?

When a motion for relief is based on newly discovered evidence, it must typically be filed within one year after the final judgment or order. If the motion is filed after this one-year period, it generally results in a denial due to timeliness. This timeframe is essential as it establishes a limit on how long after a judgment a party can seek to contest or overturn that decision on the grounds of new evidence.

This rule promotes finality in legal proceedings, allowing parties to move on and preventing indefinite extensions of the litigation. While there may be exceptional circumstances where a court could entertain motions beyond this time limit—such as cases involving fraud or newly discovered evidence that could not have been discovered within that timeframe—these situations are exceptions rather than the norm.

Understanding this principle reinforces the importance of adhering to procedural deadlines, as they are foundational to maintaining an orderly and efficient legal system. Courts rely on these time constraints to ensure cases are resolved within a reasonable timeframe, allowing for the efficiency of judicial resources and certainty for parties involved.