Home > West's Encyclopedia of American Law > Directed Verdict

A procedural device whereby the decision in a case is taken out of the hands of the jury by the judge.

A verdict is generally directed in a jury trial where there is no other possible conclusion because the side with the BURDEN OF PROOF has not offered sufficient evidence to establish a PRIMA FACIE case.

A directed verdict is provided for by federal and state rules of CIVIL PROCEDURE. In a criminal action, an acquittal may be directed in favor of a defendant, based upon rules of CRIMINAL PROCEDURE