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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 Washington State, a directed verdict is a legal ruling made by a judge during a jury trial, typically upon a motion by the defendant. This procedure is governed by the Washington Rules of Civil Procedure (CR 50). A directed verdict may be granted when the judge determines that no reasonable jury could find for the party with the burden of proof based on the evidence presented. This means that even when viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the non-moving party, there is a lack of legally sufficient evidentiary basis for a reasonable jury to find for that party on that issue. If such a verdict is granted, it means that the claim cannot go forward to the jury for a decision. A directed verdict in Washington is similar to a summary judgment, which is a pre-trial judgment, but it occurs after the presentation of evidence at trial. The purpose of a directed verdict is to avoid subjecting parties to unnecessary trials when the outcome is clear under the law and facts presented.

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Civil procedure

directed verdict

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Washington State Code

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Civil procedure

directed verdict