What are the different types of jury instructions in criminal defense law?

In Indiana, there are three main types of jury instructions in criminal defense law. These instructions help guide the jury on the appropriate legal principles and guide their decision-making in the criminal trial. The first type of instruction is known as a jury charge instruction. This is a set of instructions orally given by the judge to the jury that establishes the legal principles they must consider when making their decision. The second type of instruction is the special verdict instruction. This instruction helps the jury to return a specific verdict, such as guilty or not guilty. The last type of instruction is the supplemental instruction. This instruction is usually given if there is an unresolved issue or an incomplete answer to a given question. The jury instructions provide the jury with the legal standards they must use when determining the outcome of the trial. These instructions may also include a description of the elements of the crime charged or the definitions of any legal terms used during the trial. Furthermore, the instructions may include any instructions on burden of proof and reasonable doubt. The jury instructions serve as a road map for the jury, letting them know the law that applies to the specific case and outlining what they should consider when making their decision. These instructions also give the jury the power to find the defendant either guilty or not guilty according to the evidence presented in the trial. Ultimately, the jury instructions are designed to ensure that the jury makes a fair and accurate decision.

What are the different types of jury instructions in criminal defense law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts