A motion for new trial is a procedure that allows the trial court to order a new trial to correct significant errors in the previous trial that prevented a party from receiving a fair trial.
In Maryland, a motion for a new trial is governed by the Maryland Rules of Procedure, specifically Rule 2-533 for civil cases and Rule 4-331 for criminal cases. These rules allow a party to request a new trial if they believe there has been an error or injustice that affected the trial's outcome. The motion must typically be filed within ten days after the entry of judgment in a civil case or within 30 days after the verdict or finding of guilt in a criminal case. Grounds for a new trial can include juror misconduct, newly discovered evidence, errors of law made by the court, or any other reason that would make the trial fundamentally unfair. The decision to grant a new trial is at the discretion of the trial court, and if granted, the previous verdict is vacated, and the case is retried as if the first trial had not occurred. Appeals from the denial of a motion for a new trial are also possible under certain circumstances.