This guide contains generic forms and instructions for filing a typical motion, opposition, or reply in California state court. This page gives basic information about a few of these options, such as filing a motion, demurrer, or cross-complaint.A motion is a written request made to the court, asking the judge to issue an order. Motions are written documents that ask the court to make orders. Motions can come before, during, or after the trial. Jessica Ryan Keeney is licensed to practice law in the State of California. The "law and motion" practice in California family law cases is conducted through a motion called a "Request for Order" or RFO. If you or the other side want to ask the court to do something in a case, you must ask in written court papers called a Motion or an Order to Show Cause. Here is the procedure for filing a motion. You file a fully researched motion.