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Motion For Directed Verdict
A motion for a directed verdict is a request to the judge to decide the case immediately because the other side has not presented enough evidence to allow a reasonable jury to rule in their favor.
What it actually is
This motion is typically made by the defendant after the plaintiff has finished presenting their evidence, or by either party after the opposing side rests. The judge evaluates whether the evidence, viewed in the light most favorable to the non-moving party, is legally sufficient to support a verdict. If granted, the judge essentially takes the case away from the jury and enters a judgment for the moving party without the jury deliberating.
Why it matters in your case
If you are the party making the motion and it is granted, you win the case without having to present your own evidence or wait for a jury verdict. If the motion is denied, the case continues toward a jury verdict, but the denial preserves the issue for appeal if the eventual verdict is unfavorable.
The common misunderstanding
Many people think a directed verdict means the judge believes the facts are one-sided, but the judge does not weigh evidence or judge credibility. The standard is whether a reasonable jury could possibly find for the other side—not whether the judge personally would find for that side.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.