How Hard is it to Get a Directed Verdict in a Minnesota Criminal Trial? - Court TV Video
Watch Jack’s Interview on Court TV
Directed verdicts are very difficult things to get in Minnesota criminal trials. The idea behind them is that after the state rests it's case, the defense will ask the court to rule that there is now way that a reasonable jury could possibly find in favor of the state. In order words, there is no legally sufficient evidentiary basis to do so. This is so hard to get because judges are extraordinarily hesitant to take cases out of the hands of the jury. Rather, they let the jury decide. They shouldn't but they do. If you are facing serious charges in Minnesota, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.
“Judges are very hesitant to take verdicts out of the hands of juries. As a result, they will sometimes defer even when they shouldn’t.”
Criminal Defense Attorney Jack Rice appears on Court TV on 6/6/22 to discuss directed verdicts and why they happen and why judges don't like them. In some ways, judges may think they should but then hold their breath and hope juries will find the right answer.
If you are facing serious criminal charges in Minnesota and you are expecting to end up in trial, make sure that you sit down with an experienced criminal defense attorney. It would also be advisable to meet with a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. After all, it is about the rest of your life.
“The goal is always to make the strongest case possible so that the jury sees no alternative to a Not Guilty verdict. Whether it is from the Judge or the Jury, just get the Not Guilty.”
Jack Rice is a former prosecutor, a former U.S. Federal Officer, Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, and Founder of Jack Rice Defense. Contact us for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.