Rule 50(a) permits the motion after a party has been fully heard on an issue and before submission to the jury. Grounds must specify the judgment sought and the law and facts entitling the movant to it.
It is the prerequisite to a post-verdict renewal.
Alternative Names:
Motion for Directed Verdict, Rule 50(a)
Why it Matters?
The specificity requirement determines what can be raised after verdict, since Rule 50(b) permits only renewal of grounds asserted in the 50(a) motion. A general assertion that the evidence is insufficient preserves nothing specific. Making the motion at the close of the plaintiff's case and renewing at the close of all evidence, each time identifying elements and gaps, builds the record the post-trial motion requires.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Why does specificity matter?
When should the motion be made?
