In legal proceedings, the jury’s verdict typically determines the outcome of a trial. However, in some cases, a judge has the authority to overturn the jury’s decision. This is known as a Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV), also referred to as Judgment Non Obstante Verdicto.
This topic explains what JNOV means, when it is used, how it differs from other legal motions, and its significance in the judicial system.
Definition of Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict
What Is JNOV?
A Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV) is a legal ruling where a judge reverses the jury’s decision because the evidence presented during the trial does not support the verdict. This means that even though the jury reached a conclusion, the judge believes that no reasonable jury could have legally arrived at that decision based on the facts and applicable law.
Legal Basis for JNOV
JNOV is based on the principle that a judge has the authority to ensure that the law is correctly applied. If a jury’s verdict is irrational, unsupported by evidence, or contradicts legal standards, the judge may set it aside.
Common Scenarios for JNOV
Judgment notwithstanding the verdict is most commonly used in civil cases but can also be applied in some criminal cases under specific circumstances.
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Civil Trials: A judge may grant JNOV if a jury awards damages that are not justified by the evidence.
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Criminal Trials: JNOV is rare because of the defendant’s constitutional right to a jury trial, but a judge may overturn a guilty verdict if it is legally unsound.
When Can JNOV Be Requested?
Filing a Motion for JNOV
A motion for JNOV is usually filed by the losing party after the jury has reached its verdict but before the final judgment is entered. The motion must argue that the jury’s verdict lacks a legal or factual basis.
Requirements for JNOV
For a JNOV motion to be granted, the judge must determine that:
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No reasonable jury could have reached the given verdict based on the evidence.
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The verdict is contrary to established law.
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There was a lack of substantial evidence supporting the jury’s decision.
Timeline for Filing
The motion must be filed within a specific period after the jury’s verdict, which varies by jurisdiction. In most cases, it must be submitted within 10 to 30 days after the verdict is entered.
Key Differences: JNOV vs. Other Legal Motions
JNOV vs. Motion for a New Trial
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JNOV: Overturns the jury’s decision and replaces it with a ruling by the judge.
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Motion for a New Trial: Requests a retrial rather than a reversal of the verdict.
A JNOV completely changes the outcome, while a motion for a new trial gives both parties another opportunity to present their case.
JNOV vs. Directed Verdict
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Directed Verdict: Occurs before the jury delivers a verdict when a judge rules that no reasonable jury could decide against a party.
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JNOV: Happens after the jury has already reached a verdict and allows the judge to overturn it.
Both motions serve similar purposes but occur at different stages of the trial.
Examples of JNOV in Court Cases
Example 1: Civil Lawsuit – Personal Injury Case
A plaintiff sues a company for negligence, and the jury awards an excessive amount in damages that is unsupported by the evidence. The defendant files a JNOV motion, and the judge agrees that the verdict is unreasonable. The judge then reduces or eliminates the damages.
Example 2: Criminal Case – Insufficient Evidence
A jury convicts a defendant of fraud, but the judge determines that the prosecution failed to provide enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The judge grants a JNOV, overturning the conviction.
Advantages and Disadvantages of JNOV
Advantages
✅ Prevents unjust outcomes – Ensures that verdicts align with legal standards and evidence.
✅ Corrects jury mistakes – Addresses situations where juries misinterpret facts or law.
✅ Avoids unnecessary retrials – Unlike a new trial, JNOV can resolve legal issues without repeating the process.
Disadvantages
❌ Overrules jury decisions – Some argue that JNOV undermines the jury system.
❌ Difficult to obtain – Judges are reluctant to grant JNOV unless the case strongly justifies it.
❌ May be appealed – The losing party can challenge the JNOV, leading to prolonged litigation.
Appealing a JNOV Decision
If a judge grants or denies a JNOV motion, the affected party can appeal the decision to a higher court. The appellate court will review whether the judge properly applied the law in overturning or upholding the jury’s verdict.
A Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV) is an essential legal tool that allows judges to correct unjust jury decisions. It ensures that verdicts are legally sound and supported by evidence. However, JNOV is not granted lightly, as courts generally respect the jury’s role in the justice system. Understanding JNOV and its implications can help parties navigate legal disputes effectively.