Citigroup Bid to Dismiss Parmalat Lawsuit Fails Jul 26, 2008
Judge Jonathan Harris of Bergen County Superior Court turned aside Citigroup's motion for a directed verdict at the trial, which began May 15 ... A directed verdict for a defendant means a plaintiff didn't present enough evidence to justify continuing a trial ... Defendants often seek directed verdicts after plaintiffs finish presenting evidence, but such requests often fail. (ABC News -- Wire)
Merry case goes to state Supreme Court Jul 24, 2008
But Brennan ruled against a motion by Rossman that asked for a directed verdict of not guilty, based on a lack of evidence. The proceedings in Peabody District Court, where Merry was on track for a new trial, are on hold while the court hears the case. (Beverly Citizen, MA)
Jury finds one guilty in 2007 teenage sex case Jul 19, 2008
Prior to the deliberations, Presiding Judge James Soto granted a motion by his attorney Chris Scileppi for a "directed verdict" outside the purview of the jury essentially tossing out the sex abuse. Scileppi argued that no evidence had been demonstrated during the trial to support that charge. (Nogales International, AZ)
Case specifics important for public to know Jun 21, 2008
OUR OPINION: Directed verdicts mean case is over ... After that, the defense counsel, Davis, asked the magistrate for a directed verdict of not guilty on two other charges ... While that is legally possible (but not likely), it is not possible to renew the charges for which the judge granted the directed verdicts. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
Second Round of Sanctions May Cost Motorola Jun 17, 2008
-based telecommunications company has appealed the sanctions imposed by Broward Circuit Judge Leroy Moe and his denial of a directed verdict to the 4th District Court of Appeal ... Motorola appealed the sanctions and Moe's denial of a directed verdict on grounds that SPS had not proved legally sufficient damages ... Motorola renewed its motion for stay pending appeal May 27 and expressed concern that SPS would argue Motorola waived its appeal on the directed verdict issue even though Motorola... (Law.com)
'Not guilty' verdict speaks the truth Jun 17, 2008
When the prosecuting attorney rested the state s case, I made a motion before the court for a directed verdict of not guilty ... Based upon the lack of evidence presented by the prosecutor, the judge directed verdicts of not guilty on both charges ... My client was exonerated of all charges on June 10 and the headlines and following print should have reflected the directed verdicts of not guilty. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
Neumar's innocent, and here's the reason Jun 8, 2008
On its second day, the federal judge stopped the proceedings, ordered a directed verdict of not guilty and reprimanded the federal prosecutor for wasting everyone's time. He even asked my uncle whether he would like to make any public statement before everyone went home, and Uncle Tom pointed to the newspaper reporter in the courtroom and said, "Get my name right.". (The Augusta Chronicle)
Dyncorp ordered to pay $15M May 15, 2008
The jury verdict was in addition to Judge Gerald Lee's $2 million directed verdict entered on May 12. Worldwide Network Services, a minority-owned telecommunications service provider, worked as a subcontractor to Dyncorp in Iraq and Afghanistan installing telecommunications equipment and network services under the State Department's International Civilian Police training program. (Washington Business Journal, DC)
Dye sentenced to life for Moser murder May 14, 2008
Jay Mez, Dye's attorney, made motions for a new trial, arrest of judgment, judgment of acquittal, directed verdict and a mistrial for prosecutorial misconduct. O'Grady overruled all of the motions. (Council Bluffs Daily Nonpareil, IA)
Judge denies JetAway motion May 13, 2008
MONTROSE Arguing its opponents failed to prove the necessary elements of their cases, JetAway Aviation moved mid-trial for directed verdicts in its favor ... It was, Schum said several hours prior to making the ruling, highly unusual for a litigant to request a directed verdict before even presenting its main case. (Montrose Daily Press, CO)
Former DCC guard found not guilty Apr 3, 2008
At the close of the state's case on Monday afternoon, Judge Jennifer Bauknecht allowed a defense motion for a directed verdict of not guilty on one of the counts, with no objection from the prosecution. Strowmatt, of Fairbury, was hired as a correctional officer at Dwight Correctional Center on March 29, 1999, according to a DOC spokesman called by the Daily Leader Tuesday afternoon. (Pontiac Daily Leader, IL)
State rests in assault trial Mar 28, 2008
Judge William Henderson denied Wolfe's request for a directed verdict of not guilty. Four defense witnesses are expected to testify beginning at 11 a.m. today. (Macomb Journal, IL)
Realty Reality: Common Disclaimer is Nonetheless Important Mar 3, 2008
At the close of the Plaintiffs' evidence, the Defendants moved for a directed verdict in their favor ... There, the appellate court overturned the trial court, ruling that there should have been a directed verdict in favor of the Defendants. (RealtyTimes)
Prosecution calls its final witnesses in agents trial Mar 2, 2008
Chapman also asked the court to grant a motion for a directed verdict. He basically requested the judge decide that there is insufficient evidence for the jury to find a verdict of guilt. (Douglas Daily Dispatch, AZ)
Former Wilton mayor to be sentenced in U.S. District Court Jan 30, 2008
At the conclusion of the trial, Jarvey ruled there was not enough evidence to support a charge of conspiracy to launder money, and dismissed the charge with a directed verdict. Houston agreed in May to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana, will also be sentenced on Feb. 13. (Muscatine Journal, IO)
Sen. Crumbly seeks dismissal in election lawsuit Jan 23, 2008
"This is about the 10th attempt by them to dismiss this case or requesting a directed verdict, and I just don't understand what issue they have with seeing the evidence put to trial. I don't know what they're afraid of," said Mike Easley, an attorney for Willis. "The motions that have been submitted are ludicrous to think that once Mr. Crumbly was sworn in this issue became moot.". (Pine Bluff Commercial, AR)
Prosecutor Quashes Charges Against Judge Jan 20, 2008
And it would be unlawful, unethical and irresponsible for me to proceed with a case that I do not think has the ability to get beyond a directed verdict of acquittal, let alone beyond a reasonable doubt. He said that it would be unlawful to comment further and that the grand jurors were violating the law if they commented on the proceedings. (New York Times)
Judge rules 'Little People' star not guilty of DUI Jan 11, 2008
However, the judge learned that jurors had looked up legal terms on the internet, in violation of the judge's directions, and Roloff waived his right to a jury trial and petitioned the judge for a directed verdict of not guilty, which the judge rendered Thursday morning. Rolloff took the stand Wednesday in his own defense. (FOX 11, AZ)
Lawyer for Commeret moves to dismiss charges Dec 20, 2007
She said that it would be no different if, after a trial, a judge issued a directed verdict of not guilty on the felony charge, sending only the misdemeanor charges to the jury. In such a scenario, the defendant would not then be entitled to a mistrial and a clerk s hearing. (Marblehead Reporter, MA)
DeLand man acquitted of lewd exhibition Nov 16, 2007
Front page news - newsjournalonline. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2007. (Daytona Beach News Journal)
Mother’s mental health questioned Oct 11, 2007
Barnett then motioned 28th Circuit Court Judge Bill Fagerman for a directed verdict, seeking charges less than murder. Fagerman said there was overwhelming evidence to support the prosecution s case that Amy Musselman murdered her daughter and her actions were premeditated. (Cadillac News, MI)
Fired UGA officer acquitted in disturbance at restaurant Sep 13, 2007
Your Connection to the. "He clearly violated our standard operating procedures in regard to those matters," Williamson said. (Athens Banner-Herald)
All evidence presented in murder trial Sep 1, 2007
During a mid-afternoon recess with the jury out of the courtroom, the defense asked the court to issue a directed verdict of demur, saying the state had not presented credible evidence ... After listening to both sides presentation, Judge Ray Dean Linder said, The Court has listened carefully to a motion for a directed verdict of demur. (Alva Review Courier, OK)
A verdict of drug conspiracy Sep 1, 2007
Hours earlier, Summy smiled as he talked with siblings after Judge John Jarvey made a directed verdict of not guilty on charges of conspiracy to launder money. When the evidence is so compelling that there can be only one verdict, judges have the discretion to enter judgment and take over the fact finding role of the jury and enter a directed verdict. (Muscatine Journal, IO)
Banana split divides Florida judges Aug 30, 2007
The trial judge granted a directed verdict for the supermarket because the plaintiff's evidence -- the banana peel itself -- was insufficient to show the store had neglectfully ignored its presence. On appeal, a sharply divided three-judge panel in Daytona Beach reversed. (Jacksonville Business Journal, FL)
Read all about it! New book blog Aug 28, 2007
So far he has tackled missionaries in Saudi Arabia (in Directed Verdict), abortion and embryonic stem cell research (in Irreparable Harm), child abuse (in Dying Declaration), self-defense murder (in Self Incrimination), holiday observances (in Judge Who Stole Christmas - I haven t yet read this one), reality TV, comparative religions, and cryptology (in Cross Examination of Oliver Finney), and cryptology again (in his latest, False Witness, which I just learned about). Unfortunately, I know not... (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Morningstar trial Aug 23, 2007
The day ended with Brown asking for a motion for a directed verdict. A directed verdict is standard procedure, according to Wilson. (Wellington Daily News, KS)
Timetable set in tainted blood case Jun 29, 2007
Superior Court Justice Mary Lou Benotto dismissed the bid for a so-called directed verdict, instead laying down a strict timetable that would bring an end to arguments on Sept. 10. Lawyers for doctors Roger Perrault, Donald Boucher and John Furesz had asked for a directed verdict saying the Crown had not presented enough evidence to prove its case. (Toronto Star)
Judge won't direct tainted-blood verdict Jun 29, 2007
They had asked the court to issue a directed verdict, but Justice Mary Lou Benotto has declined the motion ... Seldom are directed verdicts granted, Mr. Greenspan said. (Globe and Mail -- National)
Warren receives 30-year sentence Jun 20, 2007
Once again Defense Attorney Spruell asked the court for a directed verdict based on the lack of proof of intent for the charge of terroristic act. He told the court that the prosecution had not proven liability beyond a reasonable doubt. (Newport Daily Independent, AR)
The court room was filled Tuesday morning as the trial began for Anthony Warren. Warren was charged with committing a terroristic act and battery in the first degree. Jun 15, 2007
The defense attorney requested the court for a directed verdict based on the fact that evidence had been presented to support a terroristic act charge or battery in the first degree ... Judge Harold Erwin denied the request for a directed verdict and defense took the floor for more testimony. (Newport Daily Independent, AR)
Defence lawyers call for directed verdict in tainted blood case Jun 15, 2007
The lawyers for Dr. Roger Perreault, Dr. Donald Boucher and Dr. John Furesz are planning a motion asking the judge for a directed verdict in favour of their clients. The doctors, New Jersey-based Armour Pharmaceutical Co. and vice-president Dr. Michael Rodell have all pleaded not guilty to charges of negligence and nuisance for allegedly giving hemophilia patients an HIV-infected blood-clotting product in the 1980s and early 1990s. (Globe and Mail -- National)
Jury convicts two brothers in 50 minutes May 25, 2007
After the prosecutor rested his case, Blades moved for a directed verdict of not guilty, which Judge Sutton denied. The two defense attorneys rested their cases without calling any witnesses. (Carmi Times, IL)
Suburban officials cleared in 2005 election-night beating May 17, 2007
After a three-day bench trial, a Cook County judge granted a defense motion for a directed verdict of not guilty late Wednesday against Frank Marzullo, Berwyn's former public safety director; his son, former Cook County Assistant State's Attorney Jerry Marzullo; Frank Marzullo's brother, Russell Marzullo; Berwyn Police Officer Michael Fellows and friend Charles Baugh. All were charged with aggravated battery for allegedly beating Wayne Pesek in a Forest Park bar on April 5, 2005, the evening of... (Mattoon Journal-Gazette, IL)
Judge pulls the plug on Cartwright May 10, 2007
During a Monday hearing, District Judge Mark Campbell granted a directed verdict in favor of the Colbert Boat Club, the plaintiff in the case. Cartwright residents narrowly voted to incorporate during an election last summer after a petition drive. (Durant Daily Democrat, OK)
Professor acquitted in kissing, battery case May 2, 2007
The judge granted a defense motion for a directed verdict that dismissed the official misconduct counts at the conclusion of the states case. He acquitted OGara of battery after hearing from the defenses single witness. (The Pantagraph newspaper)
Read More... May 1, 2007
In his argument seeking a directed verdict, McCardwell said that although the witnesses said they might not like the political talk, they were able to do their jobs. He said Keith had a good work ethic and no one stated that he did a bad job. (Sheperdsville Pioneer News, KY)
Cleared of Fraud, PwC Wants $10 Million Verdict Set Aside Apr 25, 2007
PwC attorneys had sought a directed verdict on all claims against the firm, demanding at one point in oral argument, "Where is Bill Bassett?". But although Cherokee Circuit Superior Court Senior Judge Tom Pope, who heard the case, handed down a directed verdict in the accounting firm's favor on a breach of fiduciary duty claim, he allowed the other claims, including negligent misrepresentation, to go to the jury ... But, the PwC motion continued, "Bassett did not provide that testimony. For... (Law.com)
Prosecution rests in dog mualing trial; defense presents case Mar 23, 2007
Defense motion for a directed verdict was denied after the prosecution rested its case Wednesday morning in the criminally negligent homicide trial of Jose Hernandez, the owner of six dogs that attacked and killed a 76 year-old neighbor, Lillian Stiles, on Nov. 26, 2005 ... The defense motion for a directed verdict contended the prosecution had not proven its case and no evidence was presented to prove Hernandez knew the dogs were dangerous. (Cameron Herald, TX)
overturned a $1.58 billion award Mar 22, 2007
The majority held that the trial court should have entered a directed verdict on compensatory damages in favor of Morgan Stanley, and therefore the punitive damages verdict could not stand either. The court remanded the case with an order to enter a judgment in favor of the defendant. (Law.com)
Morgan Stanley Wins Reversal of $1.58 Billion Verdict Mar 22, 2007
"Because there was no proof presented at trial on the correct measure of damages, the trial court should have granted Morgan Stanley's motion for directed verdict," the court said. (Story continues below). (Fox News)
U.S. appeals court hands victory to Morgan Stanley in Perelman case Mar 22, 2007
"Because there was no proof presented at trial on the correct measure of damages, the trial court should have granted Morgan Stanley's motion for directed verdict," the judge Carole Taylor wrote for the majority. A Florida jury in May 2005 awarded Perelman $1. (International Herald Tribune -- Money Report)
More of this story Mar 15, 2007
The judge erred in granting a directed verdict of acquittal in another murder case and told the jurors that she felt the defendant was guilty but the case might be overturned on appeal ... In the case in which she explained to jurors her reasoning in granting a motion for directed verdict of appeal, the prosecutor agreed to her explaining her reasoning to the jury. (Bartow Polk County Democrat, FL)
Walthall rape, burglary sentence upheld Mar 11, 2007
In his appeal, Magee said his case was mishandled because Starrett should have granted a directed verdict because evidence for a conviction on the rape and burglary charges were insufficient. A directed verdict allows the judge to make a ruling, not the jury. (Enterprise-Journal)
Drug case here dismissed over ‘classification' concerns Mar 8, 2007
But Mueller said that due to the technical difference in the labeling of the pseudoephedrine, a directed verdict against the state may have resulted. he (DPS) chemist said this has been a problem that many prosecutors across the state have had to address, said Mueller. (Brenham Banner, TX)
3 acquitted in Chicago club stampede Mar 3, 2007
The ruling came when defense attorneys asked the judge for a directed verdict, immediately after prosecutors rested their case and before calling any of their own witnesses. WANTED SIGN-ON BONUS. (San Francisco Chronicle -- Crime)
3 Acquitted Of Charges In E2 Nightclub Stampede Mar 3, 2007
Friday, in a 13-page ruling, Potter said the state had "not proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendants were reckless.A fourth defendant, club owner Dwain Kyles, will be tried separately.Twenty-one people were killed in the Feb. 17, 2003, stampede in the nightclub, formerly at 2347 S. Michigan Ave. Criminal charges of involuntary manslaughter were brought against the defendants the following September. The ruling Friday came in response to a defense motion for a directed verdict,... (CBS2Chicago.com, IL)
Russert, light as a feather Phil Gallagher Feb 11, 2007
A reasonable judge in most places in the country would issue a directed verdict and end this farce. Washington however is a lot like Hollywood so perhaps the presiding judge has a case of Lance Ito disease. (Opinion Editorials)
Ex-officer takes stand in hit-and-run trial Jan 18, 2007
When the state rested its case, Davis asked the court for a directed verdict, saying the prosecution hadnt even proven anyone died. No death, your honor, Davis said. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
Jury rules State Farm owes punitive damages of $2.5 million in Katrina case Jan 13, 2007
Senter's decision to make a directed verdict rather than let the jury decide the entire case appeared to surprise everyone in the courtroom. After he explained his ruling, Senter ordered a recess to give attorneys time o get over the shock. (Columbus Commercial Dispatch, MS)
Jury: State Farm owes $2.5M in damages Jan 12, 2007
Senter's decision to make a directed verdict rather than let the jury decide the entire case appeared to surprise everyone in the courtroom ... Wat Tyler wrote on January 11, 2007 8:44 PM:"Well, talk about your incredibly conflicted verdict. A directed verdict. A couple that didn't buy flood insurance in hurricane country. And talk about your chutzpah, they want $5,000,000. Greedy lawyers and people like this drive up insurance rates for all of us. It may sound funny, but we all pay for their... (The Pantagraph newspaper)
Motorola Faces Sanctions for Violating Court Orders During Trade Secrets Trial Jan 9, 2007
But Moe rejected SPS Technologies' motion for a directed verdict in the trade secrets case ... Socias asked Moe to issue a directed verdict holding Motorola liable in the trade secrets case, then have just the damages portion of the case proceed to the jury ... Moe denied the plaintiff's motion for a directed verdict. (Law.com)
