What is a motion for a directed verdict?

A motion for a directed verdict is a request made by a party in a criminal or civil trial in California. It is typically used when the party believes that the evidence presented is not sufficient for the jury to make a ruling in favor of the other party. The motion essentially asks the court to make a ruling in favor of the party before the jury has the opportunity to weigh in. Under California law, the motion for a directed verdict is sometimes known as a motion for a judgment as a matter of law. The motion is made to the court by the moving party and must be supported by both legal authority and fact. In essence, the party is arguing that the evidence presented in the case is insufficient to convince the jury to return a favorable ruling for the nonmoving party. In a criminal case, the motion for a directed verdict is usually filed after the prosecution has completed its case. If the court grants the motion, the defendant is considered acquitted and the trial ends. In civil matters, the motion can be made after the plaintiff or the defendant has presented his or her case. If the motion is granted, the case is dismissed and the issue is considered resolved without the need for the jury to render a verdict.

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