The jury charge is the questions, instructions, and definitions given to the jury by the court (judge) in a lawsuit to resolve the dispute between the parties. The jury’s answers to the questions in the jury charge determines the outcome of the lawsuit (the jury verdict), and is ultimately reflected in the court’s judgment (the statement of the relief granted in the lawsuit—generally who owes who money).
In Louisiana, the jury charge, also known as jury instructions, is a crucial component of a trial. It consists of the questions, instructions, and definitions that the judge provides to the jury. These instructions guide the jury on the legal standards and considerations they must apply when deliberating on the facts of the case. The jury uses these instructions to reach a verdict, which is their decision regarding the outcome of the lawsuit. The verdict is based on the jury's answers to specific questions posed in the jury charge. Once the jury reaches a verdict, the court will enter a judgment, which is the formal decision of the court that indicates the relief granted, such as the award of damages or other remedies. In Louisiana, the content of the jury charge is governed by the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure, and the instructions must be clear, legally accurate, and not misleading to ensure a fair trial.