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 Virginia, a directed verdict is a ruling by the court during a jury trial, typically requested by the defendant, where the judge determines that the plaintiff has not presented sufficient evidence to reasonably support their claim, and therefore, no jury could find in their favor. This procedural move occurs after the plaintiff has presented their case but before the case is handed to the jury for deliberation. The standard for granting a directed verdict in Virginia is that 'after viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the plaintiff, reasonable jurors could not differ as to the conclusion that the plaintiff has not sustained his or her burden of proof.' If the motion for a directed verdict is granted, the case ends without the claim being considered by the jury. This is governed by Virginia state law and is similar to a summary judgment, which is a pre-trial judgment that can be granted when there is no genuine issue of material fact for a jury to decide. However, unlike summary judgment, a directed verdict occurs after the trial has begun and the plaintiff has had the opportunity to present their case.