Legal Definitions - disparaging instruction

A disparaging instruction is a type of jury instruction that discredits or defames a party to a lawsuit. It is a direction or guideline that a judge gives to the jury concerning the law of the case.

For example, if a judge tells the jury that the defendant is a liar and cannot be trusted, this would be a disparaging instruction. This type of instruction is not allowed because it unfairly influences the jury's decision.

Another example of a jury instruction is a mandatory instruction. This is an instruction that requires the jury to find for one party and against the other if the jury determines that a given set of facts exists. For instance, if the jury finds that the defendant was driving under the influence of alcohol, they must find him guilty of DUI.

Overall, jury instructions are important because they help the jury understand the law and apply it to the facts of the case. They ensure that the jury reaches a fair and just verdict.