Ashcroft v. Iqbal [2009]
556 U.S. 662 (2009) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States
Issue
How should courts apply plausibility pleading to discrimination claims?
Held
The complaint did not plausibly plead purposeful discrimination by the named officials.
Exam use
Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.
Summary
Companion to Twombly and central motion-to-dismiss precedent.
Facts
Issue
How should courts apply plausibility pleading to discrimination claims?
Held
The complaint did not plausibly plead purposeful discrimination by the named officials.
Ratio Decidendi
Plausibility pleading applies across civil actions under the Federal Rules.
Reasoning
Essay-Ready Explanation Generator
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Reference to Ashcroft v. Iqbal (556 U.S. 662 (2009)) strengthens a civil procedure answer because the case reflects the principle that Plausibility pleading applies across civil actions under the Federal Rules. Applied to a problem question, the case should be used after identifying the issue as How should courts apply plausibility pleading to discrimination claims? The stronger essay move is to connect the material facts to the court's holding, then explain whether the present facts support the same conclusion or justify distinguishing the authority.
Significance
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Exam Tips
Revision Checklist
- Name the issue before discussing facts so the marker sees the legal question immediately.
- State the holding in one sentence, then use the ratio to explain why the court reached that result.
- Use the citation and jurisdiction to show why this authority matters for the problem you are answering.
- Pair this case with one supporting or contrasting authority if the question tests limits, policy, or exceptions.