Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 59: Winning a Second Chance in Federal Court

Ever felt a court decision in a federal civil case just wasn't right? Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 59 (Federal Rule 59) can be your powerful tool to seek a new trial or modify a judgment. This guide dives deep into Rule 59, empowering you to understand its intricacies and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

What is Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 59?

Federal Rule 59 is a crucial provision in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure that empowers parties in federal civil lawsuits to challenge a judgment or verdict. It outlines the procedures for filing motions for a new trial or to alter or amend a judgment.

Here's a table summarizing the two main functions of Rule 59:

Understanding the Benefits of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 59

According to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts [invalid URL removed], in fiscal year 2022, over 400,000 civil cases were filed in federal district courts. With such a high volume of litigation, there's always a chance of errors. Federal Rule 59 provides a vital safeguard, allowing parties to address situations where:

• The jury's verdict was unfair or based on insufficient evidence.
• The judge made a legal error in their instructions to the jury.
• Newly discovered evidence has come to light that could significantly impact the case.
• The judgment issued by the court contains clerical mistakes or other inaccuracies.

By leveraging Rule 59, you can potentially rectify these issues and pursue a more just outcome.

Success Stories: Rule 59 in Action

Here are two examples of how Rule 59 has been successfully used:

• In a product liability case, a jury awarded a plaintiff minimal damages despite clear evidence of a defective product. The plaintiff filed a motion for a new trial under Rule 59, arguing that the jury's award was inadequate. The court agreed and ordered a new trial on the issue of damages only.
• In a breach of contract case, the court issued a judgment that contained a mathematical error in calculating the amount of damages owed. The defendant filed a motion to alter or amend the judgment under Rule 59. The court granted the motion and corrected the error in the judgment.

These examples showcase how Rule 59 can be a valuable tool to ensure fair and accurate outcomes in federal civil litigation.

Taking Action with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 59

Understanding Rule 59 is just the first step. To maximize your chances of success, it's crucial to:

• Act promptly: Federal Rule 59 has strict deadlines for filing motions. Missing these deadlines can significantly weaken your case.
• Consult with an experienced attorney: The legal nuances of Rule 59 can be complex. An attorney can guide you through the process, draft compelling motions, and represent your interests effectively in court.

By taking these steps, you can leverage the power of Rule 59 to potentially overturn an unfavorable decision and achieve a more just resolution in your federal civil case.