Rule 226.Points for Charge. Motion for Directed Verdict.
Last amended July 10, 2008 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 226
Plain-English Summary
This rule governs two end-of-trial steps. Points for charge — the specific jury instructions a party asks the court to give — must be framed so each can be completely answered by a simple yes or no, and copies must be handed to the trial judge and to opposing counsel before closing addresses begin. A requested point becomes part of the record when read into the record or filed before a post-trial motion.
The rule also preserves the directed verdict. At the close of all the evidence, the trial judge may direct a verdict on the oral or written motion of any party.
Frequently Asked Questions
When must points for charge be submitted?
Copies of requested points for charge must be handed to the trial judge and to opposing counsel before closing addresses to the jury begin, and each point must be framed for a simple yes-or-no answer.
Can the court direct a verdict?
Yes. At the close of all the evidence, the trial judge may direct a verdict on the oral or written motion of any party.
Official Note
Official Note: An appellate court will not review an objection to a ruling of a trial court regarding a point for charge unless the point for charge was (1) presented to the court and (2) made a part of the record by either reading the point into the record or filing it in the office of the prothonotary prior to filing a motion for post-trial relief.
Amendment History
Adopted September 8, 1938, effective March 20, 1939; Amended through October 19, 1983, effective January 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3629; amended July 10, 2008, effective September 1, 2009. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (333796) and (305179).