What are Jury Instructions?

Jury instructions are the formal legal directions given by a judge to the jury before deliberation in a trial. These instructions explain the laws that apply to the case, define key legal terms (like negligence or damages), and guide the jury on how to evaluate the evidence and reach a verdict.

In a personal injury case, jury instructions help ensure jurors make decisions based on the law—not personal opinion or emotion.

What is the purpose of jury instructions?

The main purpose of jury instructions is to help the jury understand its role and responsibilities. Jurors are laypeople, not legal experts, so the judge provides a clear framework for evaluating facts, applying the correct legal standards, and delivering a fair and lawful verdict.

Instructions are typically read aloud and sometimes given in writing.

• Explain the elements of each legal claim (e.g., negligence, causation, damages).

• Define legal terms in plain language so jurors can understand them.

• Guide how to weigh evidence and assess witness credibility.

• Clarify the burden of proof the plaintiff or defendant must meet.

When are jury instructions given?

Jury instructions are delivered at the end of a trial, just before jurors begin deliberations. In some courts, preliminary instructions may also be given at the start of the trial to help jurors follow the case more effectively.

Attorneys from both sides usually propose or request specific instructions during the trial, and the judge decides which ones will be used.

• Final instructions are read before deliberation begins.

• Preliminary instructions may be given at the beginning of trial.

• Attorneys submit proposed instructions for the judge to approve.

• Standard instructions exist, but judges can tailor them to the case.

What types of jury instructions are used in personal injury cases?

In personal injury trials, jury instructions typically explain the law related to negligence, causation, compensatory damages, and comparative fault. Jurors are told how to decide whether the defendant breached a duty of care, whether that breach caused the injury, and how to calculate damages if liability is found.

Special instructions may also address affirmative defenses or how to interpret expert testimony.

• Negligence and duty of care

• Causation and foreseeability

• Damages (economic and non-economic)

• Comparative negligence, if applicable

• Use of expert evidence and credibility assessments

Why are jury instructions important?

Jury instructions ensure that verdicts are based on the law—not emotions or misunderstandings. If the judge gives incorrect or misleading instructions, it can be grounds for appeal or a new trial. That’s why both sides often fight over the wording and inclusion of certain instructions.

Clear and accurate instructions also reduce confusion during deliberations and help juries deliver consistent and legally sound decisions.

• Keep the jury focused on legal issues, not personal beliefs.

• Protect the fairness of the trial, ensuring due process.

• Serve as a basis for appeal, if instructions are flawed.

• Help reduce jury confusion in complex cases.

Conclusion

Jury instructions are a vital part of the trial process, especially in personal injury cases. They translate legal concepts into understandable guidance for jurors, shaping how verdicts are reached. For plaintiffs and defendants alike, well-crafted jury instructions can strongly influence the outcome of a case.