Judgment as Matter of Law

Question 1

As of December 1, 1991, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure were amended so that “directed verdict” and “judgment notwithstanding the verdict” are both known as “______________________.”

Answer 1

judgment as a matter of law

Question 2

In a jury trial, at the close of plaintiff’s evidence, defendant may move for a ______________________ (the old directed verdict) under Fed. R. Civ. P. 50(a). The judge may grant it if, viewing the evidence in the ________________________________, a reasonable jury could not find for plaintiff.

Answer 2

(1) judgment as a matter of law
(2) light most favorable to the plaintiff

Question 3

If the motion for judgment as a matter of law (or directed verdict) is denied, defendant presents his case. At the close of defendant’s evidence, _____________________ may move for judgment as a matter of law, which may be granted if a reasonable jury could only find for movant.

Answer 3

plaintiff and defendant

Question 4

After the jury has returned its verdict, the losing party may move for ___________________________ (the old judgment notwithstanding the verdict, or JNOV) under Fed. R. Civ. P. 50(b) anytime within ____ days after entry of judgment. However, movant must have filed a motion for _______________________ during the trial as a prerequisite.

Answer 4

(1) judgment as a matter of law
…28…
(2) judgment as a matter of law