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Simple English definitions for legal terms
directed verdict
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A quick definition of directed verdict:
A directed verdict is a decision made by a judge during a trial when there is not enough evidence for a jury to make a different decision. The judge can make this decision on their own or after a request from one of the parties involved. This usually happens after both sides have presented their evidence. There are two types of directed verdicts: one where the person making the claim doesn't have enough evidence, and one where the evidence is overwhelming. The judge can only make a directed verdict if there is no evidence on a key issue or if there is no disagreement between the parties. This decision is made according to Rule 50 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Rule 29 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Directed verdicts are not used as much anymore and have been replaced by judgment as a matter of law (JMOL).
A more thorough explanation:
A directed verdict is a decision made by a judge during a trial that there is not enough evidence for a reasonable jury to make a different decision. This ruling can be made by the judge on their own or in response to a motion from either party. It usually happens after both parties have presented their evidence.
There are two types of directed verdicts:
- When the claimant loses because their evidence is not strong enough.
- When the claimant's evidence is overwhelming, or when the evidence on a defense is either inadequate or overwhelming.
A directed verdict can only be made if there is no evidence on a material issue or if there are no disputed issues of fact that reasonable people could disagree on.
For example, if someone is accused of stealing a car, but there is no evidence that they were anywhere near the car at the time it was stolen, the judge may enter a directed verdict of not guilty. This is because there is no evidence to support the claim that the person stole the car.
Motions for a directed verdict are governed by Rule 50 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Rule 29 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. However, directed verdicts are not used as often as they used to be and have been largely replaced by judgment as a matter of law (JMOL).