Directed Verdict
A Directed Verdict is a legal decision made by a judge during a trial where they determine that there isn't enough evidence to continue with the case. Think of it as a referee calling the game early because one team clearly can't win. This usually happens when one side's evidence is so weak that no reasonable jury could decide in their favor. It's an important skill for legal professionals to understand when to request one or how to prevent one from happening. This term might also appear as "motion for directed verdict" or "judgment as a matter of law" in federal courts.
Examples in Resumes
Successfully argued for Directed Verdict in 5 civil cases, saving clients significant trial costs
Trained junior attorneys on procedures for requesting Directed Verdict motions
Prevented Directed Verdict through strategic presentation of evidence in multiple jury trials
Typical job title: "Trial Attorneys"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Trial Attorneys
Legal Professional Networks
Job Resources
Professional Development
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a complex case where you successfully argued for a directed verdict?
Expected Answer: A senior attorney should explain their strategy, including how they identified the weakness in opposing counsel's case, the timing of their motion, and how they presented their argument to the judge.
Q: How do you train junior attorneys to recognize when a directed verdict might be appropriate?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching ability and explain how they help others understand case evaluation, evidence assessment, and proper timing for such motions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when deciding whether to move for a directed verdict?
Expected Answer: Should discuss evidence evaluation, timing considerations, client interests, and strategic implications of making the motion.
Q: How do you prepare to argue against a directed verdict motion?
Expected Answer: Should explain evidence organization, identifying key factual disputes, and preparing concise arguments for the judge.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a directed verdict and when can it be requested?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept that it's a ruling made by judge when evidence is insufficient, typically after opposing party's case-in-chief.
Q: What's the difference between a directed verdict and a summary judgment?
Expected Answer: Should explain that summary judgment happens before trial, while directed verdict occurs during trial after evidence presentation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-3 years)
- Basic understanding of trial procedures
- Research on directed verdict standards
- Assisting in motion preparation
- Case law research
Mid (3-7 years)
- Independent handling of motion arguments
- Evidence evaluation
- Strategic timing of motions
- Client consultation on motion prospects
Senior (7+ years)
- Complex motion strategy development
- Training junior attorneys
- High-stakes motion practice
- Appeals of directed verdict rulings
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of actual trial experience
- Unable to explain basic motion practice
- No experience with evidence rules
- Poor understanding of procedural timing
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Who’s Really Running Your Interviews? How to Reduce Bias in Remote Hiring
Automated Scorecards in ATS Systems: Your Secret Weapon for Smarter Hiring Decisions
Global Compliance Checks: The Hidden Puzzle Pieces of Background Screening Revealed
