Which motion is associated with deciding the case without a full trial?

• A. Motion to strike.
• B. Directed verdict and non-suit motions.
• C. Motion for continuance.
• D. Motion to compel.

Answer: (B)

Motions that end a case without a full trial are those that seek judgment on the merits as a matter of law, without letting the case proceed to a complete trial before a jury. A directed verdict is requested when the evidence presented at trial shows that no reasonable jury could reach a verdict for the other side; the judge steps in and enters judgment rather than sending the case to the jury. A non-suit is a dismissal due to the plaintiff failing to establish a prima facie case or otherwise showing there’s insufficient evidence to proceed, so the case ends without a full trial. Both options are about resolving the dispute based on the law and the evidence up to that point, rather than letting a full trial run its course.

The other motions don’t fit this purpose. A motion to strike targets pleadings or evidence as inadmissible, not a ruling on the overall outcome of the case. A motion for continuance postpones the trial date. A motion to compel seeks to force compliance with discovery or other orders.