Select your state

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 Virginia, 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 they must apply when deliberating and making decisions on the case. The jury charge is tailored to the specific facts and legal issues of the case and is meant to help the jury understand the law and the legal concepts relevant to the dispute. 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 the amount of damages awarded or other remedies. Virginia follows the Virginia Model Jury Instructions, which serve as a guide for judges when crafting the jury charge, but judges may modify these instructions to fit the particular circumstances of the case.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil procedure

jury charge

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Virginia State Code

Virginia State Code

Civil procedure

jury charge

Articles