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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 Pennsylvania, a directed verdict is a legal ruling by a judge during a jury trial, typically requested by a defendant, where the judge determines that the plaintiff (the party with the burden of proof) has not presented legally sufficient evidence for a jury to reasonably find in their favor on one or more claims. This decision can be made at the close of the plaintiff's case or at the close of all evidence. The standard for granting a directed verdict is whether, viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the non-moving party, there is no genuine issue of material fact for the jury to decide and the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. This procedural action is governed by the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure and relevant case law. A directed verdict is similar to a summary judgment, which is also a judgment as a matter of law, but it occurs after the trial has begun and evidence has been presented, rather than before the trial starts.

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Civil procedure

directed verdict

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Pennsylvania State Code

Civil procedure

directed verdict

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