A motion for a directed verdict is a request for the judge to enter a judgement in favor of one party before the case goes to the jury, due to insufficient evidence to support the other party’s case. It is also referred to as a motion for judgement as a matter of law.
A motion for a directed verdict is a request made by a party in a trial to the judge, asking for a judgement in their favor before the case is presented to the jury. This request is made when there is insufficient evidence for a reasonable jury to find in favor of the opposing party. For instance, if a plaintiff brings a case against a defendant but fails to provide enough evidence to support their claim, the defendant can request a directed verdict. The judge will then determine whether to grant the motion and enter a judgement favoring the defendant. Similarly, if a defendant is accused of a crime but the prosecution fails to present enough evidence to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the defence can request a directed verdict. If granted, the defendant would be acquitted. In summary, a motion for a directed verdict allows a party to ask the judge to conclude the trial early due to insufficient evidence supporting the opposing party’s case.
A motion for a directed verdict is a request made by the defendant in a trial, asking the judge to rule in their favor and dismiss the case because the plaintiff has failed to present sufficient evidence to support their claims.
A motion for a directed verdict can be filed after the plaintiff has presented their case and before the defendant presents their defence. It is typically filed when the defendant believes that the plaintiff has not met their burden of proof.
In order for a motion for a directed verdict to be granted, the judge must find that there is no reasonable interpretation of the evidence that would allow a jury to find in favor of the plaintiff. The evidence must be so insufficient that no reasonable jury could find for the plaintiff.
If a motion for a directed verdict is granted, the case is dismissed and the defendant is not required to present their defence. The plaintiff may have the option to appeal the judge’s decision.
If a motion for a directed verdict is denied, the case will proceed and the defendant will have the opportunity to present their defence and challenge the plaintiff’s evidence.
Yes, a motion for a directed verdict can be filed in a criminal trial. It is typically filed by the defence when they believe that the prosecution has not presented sufficient evidence to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Yes, a motion for a directed verdict can be filed in a civil trial. It is typically filed by the defendant when they believe that the plaintiff has not presented sufficient evidence to support their claims.
No, a motion for a directed verdict can only be filed after the plaintiff has presented their case and before the defendant presents their defence. It cannot be filed after the defendant has presented their defence or during the jury’s deliberations.
No, a motion for a directed verdict is based solely on the sufficiency of the evidence presented by the plaintiff. It cannot be based on legal arguments or interpretations of the law.
Yes, a motion for a directed verdict can be granted in part. The judge may find that the plaintiff has failed to present sufficient evidence to support some of their claims, but not all of them. In such cases, the judge may dismiss the unsupported claims and allow the case to proceed on the remaining claims.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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