What it is
A trial motion asking the judge to take an issue away from the jury because a reasonable jury would have no legally sufficient evidentiary basis to find for the opposing party on that issue.
During trial · JMOL
Motion for Judgment as a Matter of Law
Asks during jury trial for judgment because no reasonable jury could find for the other side on an issue.
When it's used
Made during a jury trial after a party has been fully heard on an issue. It often comes at the close of the opposing party case or at the close of all evidence.
What the other side does
The opposing party argues that evidence in the record would allow a reasonable jury to find in its favor and that credibility and inference issues belong to the jury.
Common outcomes
The court may grant judgment on a claim or issue, deny the motion and send the issue to the jury, or reserve decision and allow a renewed motion after verdict.
Not legal advice. Motion practice varies by court,
judge, and case type. Local rules and standing orders frequently
modify the federal defaults shown here. If you're facing a motion
or considering filing one, talk to a lawyer about strategy and
timing for your specific case.