Opinion ID: 1375640
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Scope of Motion to Dismiss

Text: At the hearing on Brown's motion, FFC Inc. pointed out that Brown's motion to dismiss was technically made under Rule 12(b)(6), SCRCP, failure to state a cause of action, and that Brown did not specifically move pursuant to Rule 12(b)(2), SCRCP to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction over the person. During the ensuing colloquy, Brown reiterated that he was arguing a lack of due process because there was no personal jurisdiction to obtain the Texas default judgment and that the action to foreclose on the judgment should, therefore, be dismissed. The circuit court inquired whether this was going to be the only argument FFC Inc. intended to make to challenge the motion because, even if FFC Inc. was correct, the issue would still come up at a later time. FFC Inc. stated it was prepared to address the merits of the case. The circuit court stated: Well, let's address the merits of the case. Whether due process was denied and whether jurisdiction should have been granted in the State of Texas to begin with, though, that's the bottom line issue. And whether it comes up under 12(b) or summary judgment or directed verdict, it's got to be decided at some point in time. FFC Inc. expressly agreed, stating it was prepared to address that issue. In our view, the circuit court did not err in considering the issue of a lack of personal jurisdiction and due process. The 12(b)(6) label notwithstanding, Brown expressly argued a lack of personal jurisdiction and due process in his motion to dismiss, so FFC Inc. was on notice that this was the issue before the court. In addition, FFC Inc. affirmatively consented at the hearing to consideration of the issue. The parties did, in fact, thoroughly argue the merits of the jurisdictional question at the hearing and FFC Inc. presented documents and law in support of its position. Thus, there is no error warranting reversal in this regard.