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Civil procedure

jury charge

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 Maryland, the jury charge, also known as jury instructions, is a crucial component of a trial. It consists of the questions, instructions, and legal definitions that the judge provides to the jury before they deliberate. These instructions guide the jury on the legal standards they must apply to the facts they have found to be true in order to reach a verdict. The jury charge is tailored to the specific issues of the case and the applicable law. Maryland courts have established rules and case law that dictate the proper formulation and delivery of jury instructions. The Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure and case precedents ensure that the instructions are fair, accurate, and clear, so the jury can effectively perform its duty. The jury's answers to the questions posed in the jury charge lead to the jury verdict, which determines the outcome of the lawsuit. This verdict is then reflected in the court's judgment, which details the relief granted, such as monetary damages or other remedies.

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Civil procedure

jury charge

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Maryland State Code

Maryland State Code

Civil procedure

jury charge

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