Jury Instructions

Jury instructions are a set of legal guidelines provided by the judge to the jury at the end of a trial. They explain the applicable law and the standards the jury must use to decide the case. The instructions typically include a summary of the claims and defenses, the elements of each claim or defense, and the burden of proof required for each party. They may also include specific instructions on how to evaluate evidence, assess witness credibility, and reach a verdict. The purpose of jury instructions is to ensure that the jury understands the legal framework for their decision and applies the law correctly to the facts of the case. Jury instructions are typically drafted by the parties and submitted to the court for approval before being read to the jury. They are an important part of the trial process and can have a significant impact on the outcome of the case.