Motion for judgment notwithstanding verdict

Definition

A motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict (often abbreviated as JNOV) is a legal request made by a party in a trial to override the jury's verdict on the grounds that the jury could not reasonably have reached that conclusion based on the evidence presented. This motion serves as a mechanism for the judge to review the jury's decision, often in situations where the evidence overwhelmingly contradicts the verdict or where there are significant legal errors. It typically comes into play after a jury trial has concluded and aims to ensure that justice is served by correcting any potential misjudgments made by the jury.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict is typically filed after a jury trial and can only be granted if there is no reasonable basis for the jury's decision.
2. This motion requires a high standard of proof; the party making the motion must clearly demonstrate that the evidence presented at trial could not support the verdict reached.
3. If granted, this motion can lead to either a judgment entered in favor of the moving party or, alternatively, a new trial may be ordered if warranted.
4. The motion must be made within a specific timeframe after the jury's verdict, usually within a few weeks, depending on jurisdiction rules.
5. Judges often exercise caution when granting JNOV motions due to respect for jury decisions and the importance of upholding democratic principles in the judicial process.

Review Questions

• How does a motion for judgment notwithstanding verdict relate to the concept of jury authority in trials?
  • A motion for judgment notwithstanding verdict challenges the authority of a jury by asserting that their decision was unreasonable based on the evidence presented. It highlights the balance between respecting jury verdicts and ensuring justice is served when juries potentially reach erroneous conclusions. While juries have significant discretion in their findings, this motion allows judges to intervene when it is clear that no reasonable juror could have arrived at such a verdict.
• In what situations might a judge decide to grant a motion for judgment notwithstanding verdict, and what implications does this have for future cases?
  • A judge may grant a JNOV when it's evident that the evidence overwhelmingly supports one party's position, making it impossible for any reasonable juror to arrive at the opposite conclusion. This decision not only overturns the jury's verdict but also sets a precedent that can influence future cases by signaling how judges interpret evidence and assess jury decisions. The implications include reinforcing judicial oversight of jury behavior and potentially discouraging parties from relying solely on juror discretion without substantial evidence.
• Evaluate how motions for judgment notwithstanding verdict serve as a check on jury power within the judicial system.
  • Motions for judgment notwithstanding verdict serve as an essential check on jury power by ensuring that verdicts are based on sound legal principles and adequate evidence. When juries make decisions that appear irrational or unsupported by facts, JNOV motions allow judges to uphold justice and maintain integrity within the legal system. By allowing judges to override juror decisions when necessary, these motions help balance the role of juries in determining facts with judicial responsibility for ensuring that those facts adhere to legal standards, thus preserving fairness and accountability in court outcomes.

Related terms

Directed Verdict: A ruling by the judge, made before the jury deliberates, that no reasonable jury could reach a different conclusion based on the evidence presented, effectively deciding the case in favor of one party.

Judgment as a Matter of Law: A legal standard that allows a judge to rule in favor of one party if there is insufficient evidence for a reasonable jury to find in favor of the opposing party.

Post-Trial Motions: Requests made after a trial has concluded, including motions for a new trial or motions for judgment notwithstanding verdict, seeking to alter or reconsider the outcome of the trial.