Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A standard instruction is a direction or guideline that a judge gives to a jury about the law of the case. It is also known as a jury instruction or charge. The purpose of a standard instruction is to help the jury understand the legal principles that apply to the case and to guide them in reaching a verdict.
For example, in a criminal trial, the judge may give a standard instruction to the jury that they must find the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in order to convict them. In a civil trial, the judge may give a standard instruction to the jury that they must decide the case based on a preponderance of the evidence.
Standard instructions are often used in conjunction with other types of instructions, such as:
Overall, standard instructions are an important part of the legal process because they help ensure that the jury understands the law and can make an informed decision based on the evidence presented in court.