Definition

1. Noun:
   • A verdict entered by the court in a jury trial without consideration by the jury: A "directed verdict" is a ruling made by a judge, who orders the jury to return a specific verdict because, as a matter of law, no reasonable jury could reach a different conclusion based on the evidence presented.

Usage

• A "directed verdict" is a legal term used in the context of a trial. It is typically requested by one party (usually the defense) after the opposing party (the plaintiff or prosecution) has presented its case. The request argues that the evidence is legally insufficient to support a verdict for that party.
• It is used as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The defense moved for a directed verdict, arguing the prosecution had failed to prove its case.
  • The judge granted a directed verdict in favor of the defendant.
  • In a civil trial, a directed verdict for the plaintiff is possible if the defendant presents no evidence.

Advanced Usage

• "To move for a directed verdict": This is the formal legal phrase for requesting that the judge issue this ruling.
  • After the plaintiff rested, the defendant's attorney moved for a directed verdict.
• "To grant/enter a directed verdict": This describes the judge's action of issuing the ruling.
  • The court granted a directed verdict, finding no genuine issue of material fact.

Variants and Related Words

• Judgment as a matter of law (JMOL) (n): In U.S. federal courts and many state courts, this is the modern term that has largely replaced "directed verdict" for a ruling made before the case is submitted to the jury. The concept is essentially the same.
• Involuntary dismissal (n): In some civil contexts, a similar concept where a judge dismisses a case due to insufficient evidence.

Synonyms

• Judgment as a matter of law (JMOL): The contemporary legal term.
• Nonsuit (n, in some jurisdictions): An old term for a dismissal or directed verdict against the party bearing the burden of proof.

Important Notes

• Criminal vs. Civil Trials: As noted in the reference definition, a directed verdict of "guilty" is generally not permitted in a criminal trial in common law systems (like the U.S. and U.K.) due to the constitutional right to a jury trial. A judge can only direct a verdict of "not guilty" if the prosecution's evidence is insufficient. In civil trials, a directed verdict can be for either party.
• Timing: A motion for a directed verdict is typically made after the party with the burden of proof has presented its case and before the case is submitted to the jury for deliberation.

Noun

1. a verdict entered by the court in a jury trial without consideration by the jury
   • there cannot be a directed verdict of guilty in a criminal trial