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Simple English definitions for legal terms
third-degree instruction
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A quick definition of third-degree instruction:
Third-degree instruction is a term used in court when a jury cannot agree on a verdict. The judge will give the jury a special instruction to encourage them to keep talking and try to reach a decision. This instruction is also called an Allen charge, dynamite charge, nitroglycerine charge, or shotgun charge. It's like the judge is saying, "Please keep trying to decide, even if it's hard."
A more thorough explanation:
Third-degree instruction is a legal term used when a jury is unable to reach a verdict. It is also known as an Allen charge, dynamite charge, nitroglycerine charge, or shotgun charge. The court gives this instruction to encourage the jury to continue deliberating until they reach a verdict.
For example, in the case of U.S. v. Hill, the court gave a third-degree instruction to the jury when they were unable to reach a verdict. The instruction urged the jury to continue deliberating and try to reach a unanimous decision.
In another case, Allen v. U.S., the Supreme Court ruled that a third-degree instruction is legal and does not violate a defendant's right to a fair trial.
Overall, a third-degree instruction is a tool used by the court to help a jury reach a verdict when they are deadlocked. It is meant to encourage the jury to continue deliberating and to consider all the evidence presented in the case.