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 Wyoming, 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. These instructions guide the jury on the legal standards they must apply when deliberating and making decisions on the case. The jury uses the charge to understand the legal concepts relevant to the case, the elements of the claims or defenses presented, and the burden of proof required. The answers to the questions in the jury charge form the basis of the jury's verdict, which determines the outcome of the lawsuit. Once the jury reaches a verdict, the court will enter a judgment that reflects the decision, including any awards of damages or other relief. Wyoming courts follow the Wyoming Rules of Civil Procedure, which outline the process for jury instructions, including when they should be submitted by the attorneys, how they are to be given to the jury, and the judge's role in ensuring that the instructions are clear, accurate, and fair.