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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 New Hampshire, a directed verdict, which is now more commonly referred to as a 'judgment as a matter of law' under modern federal and many state procedural rules, is a ruling by a judge during a jury trial. This ruling occurs when the judge determines that no reasonable jury could reach a decision to the contrary. Specifically, if the plaintiff (the party with the burden of proof) has presented their case and the evidence is insufficient to warrant a jury's decision in their favor, the judge may direct a verdict for the defendant. This means that the judge takes the decision out of the hands of the jury because the evidence could not support a legal basis for the jury to rule in favor of the plaintiff. Directed verdicts in New Hampshire are governed by the New Hampshire Rules of Civil Procedure, and a party can move for a directed verdict at the close of the evidence presented by an opponent. If the motion is granted, the trial is effectively ended on the claim(s) addressed by the motion.

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Civil procedure

directed verdict

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Civil procedure

directed verdict

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