What is Directed Verdict?
Updated January 24, 2026
A ruling by the judge that takes the decision away from the jury because the evidence is so one-sided that no reasonable jury could reach a different conclusion.
Understanding Directed Verdict
A directed verdict, also called a judgment as a matter of law, can be requested by either party at the close of the opposing side's evidence. It is granted when there is insufficient evidence for a reasonable jury to find in favor of the non-moving party. Directed verdicts are relatively rare because courts prefer to let juries decide factual disputes.
Examples
- 1Judge granting directed verdict when plaintiff fails to prove causation
- 2Defense motion for directed verdict after plaintiff rests their case
- 3Directed verdict on liability when evidence of negligence is overwhelming
Related Terms
Summary Judgment
A court ruling that resolves a case or specific issues without a full trial, granted when there are no genuine disputes of material fact and one party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.
Verdict
The formal decision or finding made by a jury (or judge in a bench trial) on the questions of fact submitted to them during a trial.
Jury Instructions
Written legal directions given by the judge to the jury at the end of a trial, explaining the applicable law and the legal standards the jury must use to reach their verdict.
Burden of Proof
The duty to prove disputed facts, which in civil cases means proving claims by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not).
Statute of Limitations
A law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. Once the statute of limitations expires, the claim is typically barred forever.
For Personal Injury cases
The record behind a term like this one is built by the client, not the file.
Quilia asks clients about treatment, appointments and how they are doing, records the answers on the case, and syncs it to Clio, Filevine, MyCase, Neos and more.
Keep Clients Informed Without the Phone Calls
Quilia's client portal keeps your clients engaged with automated updates, reminders, and document collection, so your team can focus on winning cases.