In California personal injury law, the courtroom verdict isn’t always the end of the story. After a trial concludes, both plaintiffs and defendants may have legal options to challenge or adjust the court’s decision through what are known as post-trial motions. These motions allow a party to ask the court to review certain aspects of the case—whether due to legal errors, newly discovered evidence, or a verdict that doesn’t align with the evidence presented.
Understanding how motions in personal injury cases work is essential because this stage can meaningfully affect the final outcome. California law provides strict procedures and deadlines for filing these motions, and missing them can close the door to important legal remedies.
Common Types of Post-Trial Motions in California
Several post-trial motions are commonly filed in California personal injury cases, each serving a specific purpose within the justice process.
1. Motion for a New Trial:
A motion for a new trial asks the court to rehear the case due to serious procedural mistakes, misconduct, or newly discovered evidence that could change the result. For example, if crucial evidence was excluded by mistake or a jury acted improperly, this motion allows the court to correct that error without needing an appeal.
2. Motion to Amend the Judgment:
This motion is typically used when the court’s judgment contains a legal or factual mistake. It might involve recalculating damages, correcting clerical errors, or adjusting findings if new, material evidence becomes available.
3. Motion for Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV):
A JNOV is filed when one party believes the jury’s decision was not supported by the evidence presented at trial. Essentially, it argues that no reasonable jury could have reached the same conclusion based on the facts and law.
Each of these motions in personal injury cases requires careful legal reasoning and adherence to California’s procedural standards.
Filing Procedures and Timelines Under California Law
California courts enforce strict rules about when and how post-trial motions must be filed. In most personal injury cases, these motions must be submitted within 15 to 30 days after the court’s final judgment, as outlined in the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §§ 659–663a.
The purpose of this limited window is to ensure that potential errors are addressed quickly while the trial record is still fresh. Attorneys must clearly explain why the motion is necessary, cite relevant legal grounds, and provide supporting evidence or documentation.
Failing to follow these timelines or procedural rules can result in the court refusing to hear the motion, leaving the original judgment in place. This makes it essential for anyone involved in a personal injury case to consult experienced counsel immediately after a verdict is issued.
Why Post-Trial Motions Matter
While post-trial motions may not be as well-known as trials or appeals, they play a crucial role in ensuring fairness in California’s civil court system. These motions allow the courts to correct mistakes, consider new information, and uphold the integrity of the verdict process.
For personal injury plaintiffs, a successful motion can mean recovering the compensation they truly deserve. For defendants, it can prevent unjust liability or reduce an excessive award. In either case, understanding the role of motions in personal injury cases helps clients make informed decisions about what comes next after a verdict.