Get Motion Trial

After the Trial — The Appeal Process If you are found guilty after a trial, you have the right to an appeal process.

The most common post-trial motions include: Motion for judgment of acquittal. Motion for a trial order of dismissal. Motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict.

A motion is an application to the court made by the prosecutor or defense attorney, requesting that the court make a decision on a certain issue before the trial begins. The motion can affect the trial, courtroom, defendants, evidence, or testimony. Only judges decide the outcome of motions.

A motion for directed verdict is a motion asking the court to issue a directed verdict. This motion is made before a case is submitted to the jury, and argues that no reasonable jury could find for the opposing party. Either the plaintiff or the defendant may make this motion.

post·​tri·​al ˌpōst-ˈtrī(-ə)l. : occurring or existing after a trial.

When a trial has concluded and a verdict has been rendered by a judge or jury, the judgment must be formalized in writing by the court. Once the judgment has been rendered, either party may file what is called a post trial motion, or motion which is filed after the trial is over.

Motion for a New Trial – The court can vacate the judgment and allow for a new trial. This is rarely granted, but may be done “if the interest of justice so requires.” Motion for Judgment of Acquittal – Court may set aside the jury's verdict and allow the defendant to go free.

There are several different types of post-judgment motions, but the most common are motions for new trial, motions to vacate, and motions to set-aside. Motions for new trial, motions to vacate, and motions to set-aside are the three most common post-judgment motions.