How should Rule 50(a) motions be presented?

• A. can be either oral or written and must give fact and law reasons and the judgment sought
• B. must be filed in writing within 24 hours
• C. must be spoken only after jury verdict
• D. must include the entire trial transcript

Answer: (A)

Rule 50(a) motions for judgment as a matter of law are used to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence in a jury trial. They can be presented either orally or in writing, and they must specify the judgment sought and the factual and legal grounds that entitle the movant to that judgment. In other words, you lay out exactly what ruling you want and explain the facts and law that support granting it. These motions are typically made after the evidence is closed but before the case is submitted to the jury, and they aren’t restricted to a written format, a post-verdict timing, or requiring the entire trial transcript.