directed verdict

American  

noun

1. an order by a judge to a jury to find a verdict because the facts proved are indisputable.

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Example Sentences

Judge Summers responded to what’s ordinarily a pro forma motion before handing the case to the jury and, instead, issued what’s known as a directed verdict of acquittal, ending the case single-handedly, then and there.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

"At least five times during the recently concluded ten-and-a-half-week trial of this matter, defendants moved for a directed verdict," New York Judge Arthur Engoron wrote in a three-page ruling.

From Salon • Dec. 19, 2023

The defense asked for an immediate, or directed, verdict in its favor after the state rested.

From Washington Times • Nov. 13, 2023

The trial is proceeding after Engoron rebuffed the defense’s request last week to end it early through what’s known as a directed verdict.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 12, 2023

While unusual, Judge Hunt’s directed verdict was not illegal at the time.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling