Instruction Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Instruction, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Instruction?

It is an explanation of the process which a judge delivers or communicates to the jury explaining the basis of the law on which the trial is being considered and what law is governing the same. He further informs them where to begin, what evidence is considerd and what has been the the outcome of the trial so far. Thats known as instruction in law.

History and Meaning of Instruction

In legal terms, the term "instruction" refers to the speech given by a judge to a jury outlining the law governing the case being tried. The instruction by a judge constitutes a systematic set of statements, delivered to the jury, regarding the applicable law and evidentiary standards in a case. The goal of these instructions is to help the jury understand how to apply the law to the facts presented in the trial.

Examples of Instruction

  1. During the trial, the judge gave clear instructions to the jury on how to interpret the law and apply it to the facts.

  2. The defense team objected to the instructions given by the judge, arguing that they were too vague and did not provide enough clarity for the jury.

  3. The judge revised the instructions in response to the defense team's objections, attempting to clarify any confusion.

Legal Terms Similar to Instruction

  1. Jury Charge: A set of instructions provided to a jury by a judge outlining the legal principles they need to consider when making their decision.

  2. Jury Instructions: A more specific set of instructions that outline the elements of the crime and the law that the jury should apply to the facts of the case.

  3. Direct Examination: The questioning of a witness by their own attorney to clarify or elicit facts related to the case.