Wednesday, January 6, 2010

JURY TRIAL - DIRECTED VERDICTS

JURY TRIAL - DIRECTED VERDICTS

Even if a jury is present either party may move for a directed verdict. This takes the case away from the jury, and a judge determines the outcome as a matter of law. Motions for a directed verdict, or judgment as a matter of law are made when the opposing party has been fully heard on the relevant issues and claims. Therefore, the defendant can move for directed verdict at the close of the plaintiff’s cases, and either party may move for a directed verdict if both sides have rested, or made their case. In general, the court will direct a verdict if the evidence is such that reasonable people could not differ as to the result or outcome of a given case.

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