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 South Dakota, a motion for judgment as a matter of law is a legal procedure that can be used during a trial when a party, typically the defendant, believes that the opposing party has not presented sufficient evidence to support their claim or defense. This motion can be made before the case is submitted to the jury. The standard for the court to grant such a motion is whether there is a lack of evidence such that no reasonable jury could find in favor of the non-moving party. If the court finds that the evidence is insufficient, it may dismiss the claim or defense without sending it to the jury for deliberation. This procedure is similar to the federal rule, which is governed by Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 50. However, the specific application and rules for this motion in South Dakota state courts may be governed by state statutes and rules of civil procedure, which can differ from the federal rules. It is important for parties considering such a motion to consult with an attorney familiar with South Dakota's specific laws and procedures.