Legal Definitions - Motion For Judgment Notwithstanding The Verdict

Definition: A motion made to the court asking for a judgment to be entered even though a jury has already made a verdict. This motion argues that the jury's decision was not based on proper instructions or enough evidence, and that no reasonable jury could have reached the verdict that was made.

For example, if a plaintiff sues a defendant for breach of contract and the jury finds in favor of the defendant, the plaintiff may file a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict if they believe that the jury did not follow proper instructions or that there was not enough evidence to support the verdict.

This motion is similar to a JMOL (judgment as a matter of law) motion in federal court, which also asks for a judgment to be entered despite a jury verdict.