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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 West Virginia, as in other states, the jury charge, also known as jury instructions, is a crucial component of a trial. The judge provides the jury with a set of questions, instructions, and definitions that guide them in their deliberations. These instructions are meant to clarify the legal standards and definitions that apply to the case, explain the jurors' duties, and outline the specific questions they need to answer based on the evidence presented during the trial. The jury's answers to these questions form the basis of their verdict, which determines the outcome of the lawsuit. Once the jury reaches a verdict, the judge will enter a judgment based on this decision, which typically includes the relief granted, such as monetary damages or other remedies. West Virginia courts follow the West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure, which provide guidance on the formulation and delivery of jury instructions. The process is designed to ensure that the jury's decision is based on a clear understanding of the law and the facts of the case.

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Civil procedure

jury charge

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West-Virginia State Code

Civil procedure

jury charge

West-Virginia State Code

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