Rule 322.Generality to Be Avoided
Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 322
Plain-English Summary
Rule 322 is the companion to Rule 321. Grounds of objection couched in general terms will not be considered by the court. The rule names the usual offenders: that the court erred in its charge, in sustaining or overruling exceptions to the pleadings, or in excluding or admitting evidence, or that the jury's verdict is contrary to law, and the like.
A motion must name the specific error instead. Read with Rule 321, the rule forces a focused complaint the court can rule on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was a ground in my motion for new trial not considered in Texas?
Rule 322 lets the court disregard grounds stated only in general terms. The complaint must specifically identify the error it attacks.
What are examples of grounds Rule 322 treats as too general?
Rule 322 names several: that the court erred in its charge, in sustaining or overruling exceptions to the pleadings, in excluding or admitting evidence, or that the jury's verdict is contrary to law. Stated only in those broad terms, none of them will be considered.
How does Rule 322 relate to Rule 321?
The two work together. Rule 321 requires each point to briefly identify the specific ruling or proceeding attacked, and Rule 322 backs that up by directing the court to disregard any ground stated only in general terms.