Purpose of the Document:
Motion for Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV) is a post-trial motion filed by a party who contends that the jury’s verdict is not supported by legally sufficient evidence or is contrary to controlling law. The motion asks the court to enter judgment in favor of the moving party notwithstanding the jury’s verdict, or alternatively to grant a new trial if the court finds reversible error.
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Common Grounds / Key Legal Terms
Motion for Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV) is typically filed when a jury verdict is legally insufficient. Common grounds include insufficient evidence, incorrect jury instructions, or violations of legal standards.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Motion for JNOV
- Analyze the jury verdict and trial record.
- Consult with counsel on sufficiency of evidence.
- Draft the Motion for JNOV citing specific legal grounds.
- File within the jurisdiction’s deadline.
- Serve the motion on opposing counsel.
- Prepare for any scheduled hearing.
Documents Required
- Jury verdict copy
- Trial transcripts
- Evidence exhibits
- Proposed order for relief
- Supporting case law or statutes
Tips for Success
- File promptly within the legal timeframe.
- Provide clear citations to legal authorities.
- Focus on legal insufficiency rather than personal disagreement with jury.
- Draft precise proposed order text.
Legal Standard
Judges evaluate whether a reasonable jury could have reached the verdict. They do not substitute their judgment but assess if evidence legally supports the outcome.
Deadlines to File
Typically, a Motion for JNOV must be filed within 28 days of judgment entry. Missing this deadline may bar the motion.
Possible Outcomes
If granted, the court may overturn the jury verdict, enter judgment for the moving party, or order a new trial. If denied, the verdict stands.
Practical Example
Example: If a jury finds for the plaintiff despite no substantial evidence, the defendant may file a Motion for JNOV. The judge may then rule the plaintiff failed to prove key elements of the claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Motion for JNOV is a legal request asking the court to overturn the jury’s verdict because it is not supported by sufficient evidence or is contrary to law.
You should file a Motion for JNOV after the jury verdict and within the statutory deadline, usually 28 days from the entry of judgment.
Common grounds include insufficient evidence, errors in jury instructions, or violations of legal standards during trial.
The court may overturn the jury verdict, enter judgment in favor of the moving party, or order a new trial.