Legal Definitions - MDV

Definition: MDV is an abbreviation for "Motion for Directed Verdict." This is a request made by a defendant in a trial, asking the judge to rule in their favor because the plaintiff has not presented enough evidence to support their case.

Example: During a trial, the plaintiff presents their case and calls witnesses to testify. After the plaintiff has finished presenting their evidence, the defendant may make a motion for directed verdict, arguing that the plaintiff has not presented enough evidence to prove their case. The judge will then decide whether to grant the motion and rule in favor of the defendant, or deny the motion and allow the trial to continue.

Another example: In a criminal trial, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime they are accused of. If the prosecution fails to present enough evidence to meet this standard, the defense may make a motion for directed verdict, asking the judge to dismiss the case.

These examples illustrate how a motion for directed verdict is used in a trial setting to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence presented by the opposing party.