A motion for judgment as a matter of law is a procedure during trial in which a party who does not have the burden of proof on a claim (generally the defendant) or on a defense to a claim (generally the plaintiff) may ask the court to dismiss the claim or defense before the jury is allowed to decide it. The standard for dismissing such a claim or defense is whether no reasonable jury could find for the opposing party on the claim or defense. In the federal court system, a motion for judgment as a matter of law is governed by Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 50.

In Maryland, a motion for judgment as a matter of law is a legal procedure that occurs during a trial. This motion can be made by a party who does not carry the burden of proof for a claim or defense, typically the defendant for a claim or the plaintiff for a defense. The purpose of this motion is to request the court to decide on a claim or defense without submitting it to the jury, based on the argument that no reasonable jury could find in favor of the opposing party on the specific issue. The state of Maryland follows its own procedural rules, which are similar to the Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 50 that governs such motions in the federal court system. The Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure would provide the specific standards and timing for making such a motion in a Maryland state court. It is important for parties considering this motion to consult with an attorney to understand the precise requirements and likelihood of success in their particular case.