Trials, Verdicts, and Judgments

Question 1

jury trials

Answer 1

7A preserves a right to a jury trial in all suits at common law that exceed $20 in controversy

Question 2

jury selection

Answer 2

US Constitution requries impartial selection of a jury pool (not jury itself) that is taken from a cross section of the community

Question 3

motion for a directed verdict/judgment as a matter of law (JMOL)

Answer 3

• Only D: D may file this motion after P rests its case
• Both parties: either party may file the motion after D rests its case

NOTE: if there is no substantial evidence to support a verdict for the nonmoving party, the verdict will be granted

Question 4

motion for renewed judgment as a matter of law (RJMOL)

Answer 4

a party may file this motion w/in 28 days of the jury’s verdict if the party previously made a motion for JMOL

Question 5

motion for new trial

Answer 5

• if there are errors in the trial process that taint the jury’s decision-making process, OR
• if the jury’s decision is against the great weight of evidence

Question 6

final orders are generally appealable

Answer 6

Exceptions include:
* collateral orders
* injunctions
* interlocutory orders by leave
* final orders in cases involving multiple claims and parties