Fla. Fam. L. R. P. 12.480

RULE 12.480

MOTION FOR A DIRECTED VERDICT

(a) Effect. A party who moves for a directed verdict at the

close of the evidence offered by the adverse party may offer evidence

in the event the motion is denied without having reserved the right

to do so and to the same extent as if the motion had not been made.

The denial of a motion for a directed verdict shall not operate to

discharge the jury, if applicable. A motion for a directed verdict

must state the specific grounds for it. The order directing a verdict

is effective without any assent of the jury, if applicable.

(b) Reservation of Decision on Motion. When a motion for

a directed verdict is denied or for any reason is not granted, the

court is deemed to have submitted the action to the jury, if

applicable, subject to a later determination of the legal questions

raised by the motion. Within 15 days after the return of a verdict, a

party who has timely moved for a directed verdict may serve a

motion to set aside the verdict and any judgment entered on it and

to enter judgment in accordance with the motion for a directed

verdict. If a verdict was not returned, a party who has timely moved

for a directed verdict may serve a motion for judgment in

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accordance with the motion for a directed verdict within 15 days

after discharge of the jury, if applicable.

(c) Joined with Motion for New Trial or Motion for

Rehearing. A motion for a new trial or motion for rehearing may be

joined with a motion for directed verdict or a new trial may be

requested in the alternative. If a verdict was returned, the court

may allow the judgment to stand or may reopen the judgment and

either order a new trial or rehearing, or direct the entry of judgment

as if the requested verdict had been directed. If no verdict was

returned, the court may direct the entry of judgment as if the

requested verdict had been directed or may order a new trial or

rehearing.