Before a case is presented to the jury, a motion for judgement as a matter of law can be filed with the court. This motion asserts that the opposing party lacks sufficient evidence to prevail and that no reasonable jury could rule in their favor. In federal court, this motion can also be submitted after a jury has rendered a verdict and is sometimes referred to as a motion for a directed verdict.
A party in a court case can make a motion asking the judge to enter a judgement in their favor because the opposing party has not presented enough evidence to support their case. This motion is made before the case is given to the jury and argues that no reasonable jury could find for the opposing party based on the evidence presented. For example, if a defendant believes that the plaintiff has not presented enough evidence to prove their case, they may file a motion for judgement as a matter of law in a breach of contract case. In federal court, this motion can be renewed after a jury has made a decision against the party making the motion, while in state court it is called a JNOV (judgement notwithstanding the verdict) motion. This motion is also known as a motion for a directed verdict.
A JMOL is a request made by a party in a civil trial asking the judge to rule in their favor because the opposing party has not presented sufficient evidence to support their case.
A party can file a JMOL after the opposing party has presented their case at trial, but before the case is submitted to the jury for a verdict.
The standard for granting a JMOL is whether there is enough evidence for a reasonable jury to find in favor of the party making the motion.
If a JMOL is granted, the judge will enter a judgment in favor of the party making the motion and the case will not go to the jury for a verdict.
Yes, a party can appeal the denial of a JMOL after a final judgment is entered in the case.
A JMOL is made during trial, after the opposing party has presented their case, while a motion for summary judgment is made before trial and is based on the evidence presented during the pre-trial discovery process.
No, a JMOL is specific to civil trials and is not applicable in criminal cases.
The party making the JMOL must file a written motion with the court and present legal arguments and evidence supporting their request.
Yes, a judge can grant a JMOL based solely on the written motion and supporting evidence, without the need for oral arguments.
If a party disagrees with the granting or denial of a JMOL, they can file an appeal with a higher court to review the decision.
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: 17th April 2024.
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