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Civil procedure

directed verdict

A directed verdict is a procedure used by judges during trial to dismiss one or more claims when the party with the burden of proof (plaintiff) has failed to introduce evidence that is sufficient for a reasonable jury to find in favor of the party with the burden of proof. A directed verdict is like a summary judgment, but happens during trial rather than before trial.

In Minnesota, a directed verdict is a legal mechanism governed by the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 50.01. This rule allows a judge to issue a directed verdict during a trial when the party bearing the burden of proof, typically the plaintiff, has presented their case and the evidence is insufficient to establish a prima facie case for the jury to reasonably grant a verdict in their favor. Essentially, if after considering the evidence in the light most favorable to the non-moving party, the judge concludes that no reasonable jury could find for the party with the burden of proof, the judge can direct a verdict without sending the case to the jury for deliberation. This is a procedural action taken during the trial, as opposed to a summary judgment, which is decided before the trial begins based on pleadings, depositions, and affidavits, and without the presentation of evidence in open court.

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Civil procedure

directed verdict

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Minnesota State Code

Minnesota State Code

Civil procedure

directed verdict

Articles