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Examples Of Directed Verdicts

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A directed verdict occurs in a jury trial when an order is made by a trial judge instructing the jury to return a specific verdict. (Legal Dictionary, 2017) Directed verdicts apply to both civil and criminal trial cases. If a judge feels that the plaintiff has presented all of his or her evidence at trial; however, the plaintiff failed to meet the burden of proof; therefore, the defendant may move for a directed verdict, also known as a judgment of acquittal. (Hall, 2014) The trial judge reviews the evidence presented by the government; nevertheless, when the judge learns that no reasonable jury could reach any other decision because evidence to support a conviction is inadequate, the judge will enter a directed verdict favoring the defendant. …show more content…

The prosecutions have to present enough evidence to prove that the defendant is guilty; considering, that directed verdicts are rarely granted, judges rather have a jury return a verdict. However, if a motion for directed verdict is granted the jury does not get the chance to deliberate as a matter of fact the jury is discharged. If the motion for directed verdict is denied, the defense may present their case; however, the rules do not change for the prosecution. “A motion for a directed verdict which is not granted is not a waiver of trial by jury even though all parties to the action have moved for directed verdicts” (Massachusetts Court System, 2017). The defendant is not required to present a defense; therefore, the jurors are instructed not to infer guilt because of the absence of the defense. (Hall,

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