What is Jury Instructions?
Updated January 24, 2026
Written legal directions given by the judge to the jury at the end of a trial, explaining the applicable law and the legal standards the jury must use to reach their verdict.
Understanding Jury Instructions
Jury instructions cover the elements of each claim, the burden of proof, how to evaluate witness credibility, and the types of damages that can be awarded. Both parties typically submit proposed instructions, and disputes over instructions are resolved by the judge. Errors in jury instructions are a common basis for appeal.
Examples
- 1Judge instructing jury on the elements of negligence
- 2Instructions explaining comparative fault percentages
- 3Jury receiving instructions on how to calculate non-economic damages
Related Terms
Closing Argument
The final oral statement made by each attorney to the jury at the conclusion of a trial, summarizing the evidence and arguing why the jury should rule in their client's favor.
Verdict
The formal decision or finding made by a jury (or judge in a bench trial) on the questions of fact submitted to them during a trial.
Voir Dire
The jury selection process during which attorneys and the judge question potential jurors to determine their suitability and identify any biases that could affect their impartiality.
Burden of Proof
The duty to prove disputed facts, which in civil cases means proving claims by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not).
Statute of Limitations
A law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. Once the statute of limitations expires, the claim is typically barred forever.
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