jury instructions
Judge's legal directions
Jury instructions are the directions a judge gives to jurors before they deliberate, explaining the relevant laws and legal standards they must apply to reach a verdict.
These instructions define key terms, outline what the prosecution or plaintiff must prove, and clarify how jurors should evaluate evidence.
Attorneys often argue over proposed instructions, since their precise wording can significantly influence the outcome.
The defense objected to the jury instructions on self-defense.
- burden of proofDuty to prove allegations
- standard of proofRequired level of certainty
- deliberationCareful weighing of choices
- good faithSincere, honest intent
- lawBinding principle or regulation
reasonable doubt · rule · admonition · plain language · legal definitions · statutory law · courtroom procedure · judge · acquittal · unanimous decision · judicial oversight · beyond · preponderance · courtroom · trial court · criminal trial · foreman · sentencing guidelines
- courtroomjudge, oath taking, lawyer, bench, gavel
- criminal lawcrime, felony, misdemeanor, murder, robbery
- court recordscourt documents, court transcripts, court records, court cases, court record
- courtroom itemsevidence, gavel, witness stand, documents, legal briefs
- courtroom ritualsoath, swearing in, all rise, opening statements, closing arguments
- jury trialjuror selection, voir dire, venire, empanelment, impanelment
jury instructionsclosing arguments
Attorney's final jury address
opening statements · witness testimony · cross-examination · voir dire · jury deliberation