(a) Time. A motion for new trial shall be filed not later than 15 days after return of verdict in a jury action or the date of filing of the judgment in a nonjury action. A timely motion may be amended to state new grounds at any time before it is disposed of in the discretion of the court.
(b) Determination. The motion shall set forth the basis with particularity. Upon examination of the motion, the court may find it without merit and deny it summarily, or may grant a hearing on it with notice.
(c) Grounds. All orders granting a new trial shall specify the specific grounds therefor. If such an order is appealed and does not state the specific grounds, the appellate court shall relinquish its jurisdiction to the trial court for entry of an order specifying the grounds for granting the new trial.
Asking for a "Do-Over": This rule explains how a party who is unhappy with the outcome of a trial can ask the judge for a new trial.
(a) The Deadline is Strict: You must file your motion for a new trial **no later than 15 days** after the jury's verdict is returned or the judge's final judgment is filed. This is a critical deadline.
(b) What to Include: Your motion must state with "particularity" the specific legal grounds and reasons why you believe a new trial is warranted. The judge can either deny the motion immediately if it clearly lacks merit, or they can set a hearing to listen to arguments.
(c) Judge's Order: If the judge agrees to grant a new trial, their written order must specify the exact reasons for their decision. This is important because it creates a clear record for a potential appeal by the other party.
