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 New Hampshire, a motion for a new trial is governed by state procedural rules and case law. Under New Hampshire Superior Court Rules, Rule 59, a party may file a motion for a new trial within ten days after the verdict or decision has been issued, unless the court extends this time. The grounds for such a motion typically include errors of law that occurred during the trial, newly discovered evidence that could not have been obtained with reasonable diligence for the original trial, misconduct of parties, attorneys, jurors, or the court, among other reasons. The purpose of the motion is to request the court to reexamine an issue of fact or law that materially affected the outcome of the trial. If the court finds that a significant error occurred and it prejudiced the rights of the party seeking the new trial, the court has the discretion to grant the motion and order a new trial to ensure justice is served.